Content display with dynamic zoom focus

ABSTRACT

Systems and methods are provided for displaying and presenting content. When presenting content in real time, contextual-zoom-focus and/or dynamic-zoom-focus may be placed on selected portions of the content. For example, the content may be zoomed and the selected portions of content may be repositioned to a central area of a display. Additionally, context may be maintained for the selected portions of content by at least partially displaying nearby content. In some cases, portions of content may be displayed in a progressive manner along a selected display path. Accordingly, context for the portions of content may be maintained along the display path. In some cases, placing contextual-zoom-focus and/or dynamic-zoom-focus on portions of content may be animated and the portions of content may perceptively zoom and glide into focus.

BACKGROUND

When content is displayed or presented, it can be difficult to focus anaudience on a portion of content being discussed. That is, whileapplications exist for organizing content prior to a presentation, theapplications do not provide a presenter with a way to easily guide anddirect listeners, or emphasize and highlight aspects of the content,during the presentation.

It is with respect to these and other general considerations thatembodiments have been made. Also, although relatively specific problemshave been discussed, it should be understood that the embodiments shouldnot be limited to solving the specific problems identified in thebackground.

SUMMARY

This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in asimplified form that are further described below in the DetailedDescription. This Summary is not intended to identify key features oressential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended tobe used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

In embodiments, a computer-implemented method for displaying contentwith a plurality of objects. The method includes displaying theplurality of objects in a window, where the plurality of objects have anarrangement. The method further includes receiving an indication of apath from a first object to a second object of the plurality of objectsand placing dynamic-zoom-focus on the first object in the window.Additionally, the method includes following the path from the firstobject to the second object, and while following the path, displayingone or more of the plurality of objects along the path. The methodfurther includes placing dynamic-zoom-focus on the second object in thewindow.

In further embodiments, a computer-readable storage medium havingcomputer-readable instructions stored thereon is provided. Thecomputer-readable instructions, when executed, cause a computer systemto display an object in a window, where the object includes one or moreelements in a first arrangement. Further, at least one of the one ormore elements includes one or more sub-elements in a second arrangement.Moreover, the computer-readable storage medium includescomputer-readable instructions for receiving an indication of a firstpath from a first element to a second element of the one or moreelements. In embodiments, the computer-readable storage medium includescomputer-readable instructions for placing dynamic-zoom-focus on thefirst element in the window and maintaining context for the firstelement in the window. Additionally, the computer-readable storagemedium includes computer-readable instructions for following the firstpath from the first element to the second element, placingdynamic-zoom-focus on the second element in the window, and maintainingcontext for the second element in the window.

In still further embodiments, a computer system comprising at least oneprocessing unit and at least one memory is provided. The at least onememory of the computer system further has computer-readable instructionsstored thereon that, when executed by the at least one processing unit,cause the computer system to display a plurality of objects in a window,where the plurality of objects have an arrangement. The computer systemfurther receives an indication of a path from a first object to a secondobject of the plurality of objects and places dynamic-zoom-focus on thefirst object in the window. Additionally, the computer system followsthe path from the first object to the second object and placesdynamic-zoom-focus on the second object in the window.

These and various other features as well as advantages that characterizethe systems and methods described herein will be apparent from a readingof the following detailed description and a review of the associateddrawings. Additional features are set forth in the description whichfollows, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may belearned by practice of the technology. The benefits and features of thetechnology will be realized and attained by the structure particularlypointed out in the written description and claims hereof as well as theappended drawings.

It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description andthe following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and areintended to provide further explanation of the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1A-1C illustrate embodiments of displaying content with contextualzoom focus using a touch screen.

FIGS. 2A-2C illustrate embodiments of displaying content with contextualzoom focus in a slide presentation.

FIGS. 3A-3D illustrate embodiments of displaying content by adjusting azoom level.

FIGS. 4A-4D illustrate embodiments of displaying content with contextualzoom focus in a document.

FIGS. 5A-5D illustrate embodiments for displaying content with dynamiczoom focus.

FIGS. 6A-6C illustrate additional embodiments for displaying contentwith dynamic zoom focus.

FIGS. 7A-7B illustrate alternative embodiments for displaying contentwith dynamic zoom focus.

FIG. 8 is a flow diagram representing an embodiment of a method fordisplaying content with contextual zoom focus.

FIG. 9 is a flow diagram representing an embodiment of a method fordisplaying content with dynamic zoom focus.

FIG. 10 illustrates a system for displaying content with contextual zoomfocus and/or dynamic zoom focus.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating physical components of acomputing device with which embodiments of the disclosure may bepracticed.

FIG. 12 illustrates an exemplary tablet computing device 1200 that mayexecute one or more embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 13 illustrates a mobile computing device 1300, for example, amobile telephone, a smart phone, a tablet personal computer, a laptopcomputer, and the like, with which embodiments of the present disclosuremay be practiced.

FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating the architecture of oneembodiment of a mobile computing device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As disclosed herein, when displaying or presenting content, it may bedesirable to emphasize less than all of the content. For example, it maybe desirable to emphasize particular aspects of content or to guide adiscussion from one object to another during a presentation. In othercases, it may be desirable to increase a size of a portion of contentfor improved viewing or clarity of the object.

Systems and methods are provided herein for displaying and presentingcontent. When presenting content in real time, focus may be placed onselected portions of the content. For example, the content may be zoomedand the selected portions of content may be repositioned to a centralarea of a display. Additionally, context may be maintained for theselected portions of content by at least partially displaying nearbycontent. In some cases, portions of content may be displayed in aprogressive manner along a selected display path. Accordingly, contextfor the portions of content may be provided as the portions of contentare displayed along the path. In some cases, placing focus on portionsof content may be animated and the portions of content may perceptivelyzoom and glide into focus.

Various embodiments are described more fully below with reference to theaccompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and which show specificexemplary embodiments. However, embodiments may be implemented in manydifferent forms and should not be construed as limited to theembodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided sothat this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fullyconvey the scope of the embodiments to those skilled in the art.

Embodiments may be practiced as methods, systems or devices.Accordingly, embodiments may take the form of a hardware implementation,an entirely software implementation or an implementation combiningsoftware and hardware aspects. The following detailed description is,therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.

FIGS. 1A-1C illustrate embodiments of displaying content with contextualzoom focus using a touch screen.

FIG. 1A illustrates embodiments of displaying content on a computingdevice 100 equipped with a touch screen. As used herein, a touch screenincludes a graphical user interface that is capable of receiving inputvia contact with the screen, thereby functioning as both an input deviceand an output device. For example, content may be displayed, or output,on the screen and input may be received by contacting the screen using astylus or by direct physical contact of a user, e.g., touching thescreen. Contact may include, for instance, tapping the screen, usinggestures such as swiping or pinching the screen, sketching on thescreen, etc. In embodiments, sketching on the screen may involvedepicting visible shapes on the screen or invisible shapes on thescreen, e.g., with a stylus or using touch. In embodiments, whethershapes are visible or invisible may depend on whether or not a computingdevice is configured to display the received shape to the user.

In further embodiments, content that is displayed or presented in realtime, e.g., during a presentation, collaborative environment, orotherwise, is provided in a presentation mode. In contrast, duringpreparations for a subsequent presentation or display of content,content may be accessed and manipulated in an edit mode. Unless statedotherwise, embodiments described herein are illustrated in presentationmode.

As illustrated by FIG. 1A, the content is displayed within a window 102surrounded by a housing 104 on computing device 100. In the illustratedembodiment, window 102 completely fills the touch screen of computingdevice 100. In other embodiments, window 102 may fill a portion of thetouch screen, e.g., a predetermined or selected percentage of the touchscreen (not shown).

In embodiments, window 102 includes a west edge 116, an east edge 118, anorth edge 120 and a south edge 122. Additionally window 102 includes anorthwest corner 124, a southwest corner 126, a northeast corner 128 anda southeast corner 130. As used herein, directional descriptions may beused in discussing portions of window 102. For example, an area ofwindow 102 near east edge 118 may be described as an “eastern area” ofwindow 102, and the like.

As illustrated, the displayed content includes a plurality of objects.In embodiments, an object may be any discrete item, e.g., a shape, aportion of text, an icon, an image, a link, etc. For example, objects106 and 108 are animated human beings or avatars, and objects 110 and112 are text boxes. Additionally, the plurality of objects is displayedin a configuration, or an arrangement, within window 102. That is, withrespect to an object of the plurality of objects, some objects aredisplayed near the object and other objects are displayed farther awayfrom the object in the arrangement. In embodiments, an object is nearanother object when the objects are not substantially separated byintervening white space and/or other objects within the arrangement.Alternatively, an object is farther from another object when the twoobjects are substantially separated by white space or other objects.

For example, object 106 is near object 108 in the arrangement of objectsdisplayed in window 102, i.e., objects 106 and 108 are not substantiallyseparated by white space or other objects. Object 106 is also nearobjects 132 and 134, which partially overlap object 106 and are notsubstantially separated from object 106 by white space or other objects.In contrast, object 106 is farther away from object 110, which issubstantially separated from object 106 by white space and by object108. One of skill in the art will appreciate that the configuration orarrangement of the plurality of objects within window 102 may bedescribed in any number of suitable ways.

In embodiments, when viewing or presenting content in window 102, it maybe desirable to emphasize less than all of the content, i.e., less thanall of a plurality of objects within the content. For example, it may bedesirable to emphasize a particular object or to guide a discussion fromone object to another during a presentation. In other cases, it may bedesirable to increase a size of an object for improved viewing orclarity of the object.

As used herein, the term “contextual zoom focus” refers to increasing asize of an object (zoom), repositioning the object in a central area ofa window (focus), and at least partially displaying one or moreadditional objects and/or white space in the window to provide contextfor the object (context). Alternatively, the term “zoom focus” refers toincreasing a size of an object (zoom) and repositioning the object in acentral area of a window (focus). Further still, the term “dynamic zoomfocus” refers to an ordered system for increasing the sizes of objects(zoom) and sequentially repositioning the objects (dynamic) in a centralarea of a window (focus). In embodiments, an object in contextual zoomfocus, or dynamic zoom focus, may be referred to herein as a“smart-zoom-focused” object. Moreover, a view in which objects aredisplayed in contextual zoom focus or dynamic zoom focus may be referredto herein as a “smart-zoom-focus” view.

In embodiments, placing contextual-zoom-focus on an object may betriggered by receiving a selection of the object. In turn, selection ofan object may be received by a double tap on or near the object using astylus or touch. In other embodiments, selection of an object may bereceived by a double click on or near the object using a mouse, orselection may be received using short-cut keys on a keyboard, e.g., up,down, left, right arrow keys. In still other embodiments, selection ofan object may be received by visibly or invisibly drawing a shape aroundthe object, e.g., a circular shape.

In embodiments, when a selection is received, the displayed content isevaluated to identify an object nearest to the received input. Forinstance, the displayed content may be evaluated to determine the objectnearest to a double tap or click. In embodiments, a double tap or clickmay be received directly on an object. In this case, according toembodiments, it may be determined that the object is selected forcontextual-zoom-focus. In other embodiments, a double tap or click isreceived near one or more objects. In this case, a calculation may beconducted to determine the object closest to the received input, and theclosest object may be selected for contextual-zoom-focus. In still otherembodiments, a double tap or click may be received in white space thatis not substantially near an object. In this case, no object may beselected. However, in this case, a view of the window may be adjusted,for example, from smart-zoom-focus view to normal view. Alternatively,in still other embodiments, when a visible or invisible shape isdetected, the displayed content may be evaluated to determine an objectnearest to a center of the shape, and the object nearest to the centermay be selected for contextual-zoom-focus.

In the illustrated embodiment, object 110 is selected by double tap 114received on object 110.

FIG. 1B illustrates embodiments of content displayed with contextualzoom focus in window 102.

In embodiments, when double tap 114 is received on or near object 110,contextual-zoom-focus is placed on object 110. For example,contextual-zoom-focus may include adjusting a view of window 102 fromdisplaying the plurality of objects to primarily displaying object 110.That is, in some embodiments, contextual-zoom-focus may involveincreasing a size of object 110 and repositioning object 110 to acentral area 136 of window 102. In some cases, contextual-zoom-focus maybe animated, i.e., object 110 may perceptively increase in size andglide from an eastern area of window 102, as illustrated in FIG. 1A, toa central area 136 of window 102, as illustrated by FIG. 1B. In othercases, contextual-zoom-focus may be immediate, i.e., the view of window102 may quickly transition, or flash, from displaying object 110 in aneastern area of window 102 to displaying an enlarged form of object 110in a central area 136 of window 102.

According to some embodiments, when contextual-zoom-focus is placed onan object of a plurality of objects, a size of the content, i.e., theplurality of objects, may also be increased (or zoomed). For example, asillustrated by FIG. 1B, in addition to increasing the size of object110, sizes of objects 108 and 112 are increased within window 102.

In further embodiments, when contextual-zoom-focus is placed on anobject, context for the contextual-zoom-focused object with respect tothe plurality of objects may be preserved. For example, as describedabove, the plurality of objects may be arranged with respect to oneanother, as illustrated by a normal view in FIG. 1A. Moreover, inembodiments, the arrangement of the plurality of objects is fixed suchthat increasing the sizes of the plurality of objects in asmart-zoom-focus view does not alter the positions of the objects withrespect to one another. Accordingly, in some embodiments, context forthe contextual-zoom-focused object (e.g., object 110) with respect tothe plurality of objects may be preserved by at least partiallydisplaying one or more objects (e.g., objects 108 and 112) that arepositioned near the contextual-zoom-focused object within thearrangement. In other embodiments, i.e., where there are no objectspositioned near the contextual-zoom-focused object in the arrangement,context for the object (e.g., object 110) may be preserved by displayingat least some white space around the contextual-zoom-focused object. Asused herein, a normal view refers to a display of content in a windowwithout contextual-zoom-focus or dynamic zoom focus, i.e., with normalfocus, and a smart-zoom-focus view refers to a display of content in awindow with contextual-zoom-focus or dynamic-zoom-focus.

For example, to allow for context, contextual-zoom-focus may be placedon an object such that the object fills up to about 64% of a window. Inother embodiments, contextual-zoom-focus may be placed on an object suchthat the object fills a majority of a window, e.g., more than about 50%but less than about 64% of the window. In still other embodiments, anobject in contextual-zoom-focus may fill any suitable portion of awindow such that the object is emphasized or highlighted within thewindow, but context with respect to the object is maintained. Accordingto further embodiments, upon receiving a selection to place an object incontextual-zoom-focus, calculations may be made to determine an extentto which the size of the selected object should be increased in orderfor the selected object to fill about 64% of the window.

According to further embodiments, when a window is in smart-zoom-focusview, a selection may be received to adjust contextual-zoom-focus to adifferent object. For example, a selection to adjustcontextual-zoom-focus to a different object may include a single tap ora single click on a partially displayed object within the window.Alternatively, a single tap or a single click may be received in one ofeight directions surrounding the contextual-zoom-focused object (e.g.,toward edges 116, 118, 120, 122, or toward corners 124, 126, 128 or 130of window 102). In this case, contextual-zoom-focus is adjusted to anobject near the direction of the single tap or single click. Forexample, as illustrated by FIG. 1B, single tap 138 may be received onobject 112, which is partially displayed in the southwest corner ofwindow 102.

According to alternative embodiments, when a window is insmart-zoom-focus view, a selection may be received to return to normalview (not shown). For example, a selection to return to normal view fromsmart-zoom-focus view may include a double tap or click in white spacewithin window 102. For example, when returning to normal view, a size ofthe contextual-zoom-focused object (e.g., object 110) and sizes of otherobjects (e.g., objects 108 and 112) may decrease. Additionally, aposition of the contextual-zoom-focused object may shift from thecentral area of the window to its original position in the arrangementof the plurality of objects. In embodiments, returning to normal viewcomprises returning to an original view of the plurality of objects inwindow 102, e.g., as illustrated by FIG. 1A.

In further embodiments, returning to normal view may be animated,immediate, or some combination thereof. For example, if the return tonormal view is animated, the contextual-zoom-focused object, i.e.,object 110, may perceptively decrease in sized and glide from thecentral area 136 of window 102, as illustrated in FIG. 1B, to an easternarea of window 102, as illustrated by FIG. 1A. In other cases, thereturn to normal view may be immediate, i.e., the view of window 102 mayquickly transition, or flash, from displaying object 110 in a centralarea 136 of window 102 to displaying a diminished form (e.g., originalsize) of object 110 in an eastern area of window 102.

FIG. 1C illustrates embodiments of shifting contextual zoom focus forcontent displayed in window 102.

In embodiments, when single tap 138 is received on or near object 112,contextual-zoom-focus shifts from object 110 to object 112 in window102. For example, shifting contextual-zoom-focus may include adjusting aview of window 102 from displaying object 110 in a central area 136 todisplaying object 112 in the central area 136. Described more generally,according to embodiments, when contextual-zoom-focus is shifted from oneobject to another, the view may adjust from a contextual-zoom-focus on afirst object (e.g., the contextual-zoom-focused object) to a secondobject (e.g., the selected object).

In some cases, shifting contextual-zoom-focus may be animated, i.e.,object 112 may perceptively glide from a southwestern area of window102, as illustrated in FIG. 1B, to a central area 136 of window 102, asillustrated by FIG. 1C. In other cases, shifting contextual-zoom-focusmay be immediate, i.e., the view of window 102 may quickly transition,or flash, from displaying object 110 in a central area 136 of window 102to displaying object 112 in the central area 136 of window 102.

As described above, in contextual-zoom-focus view, both a size of thecontextual-zoom-focused object, as well as the sizes of other objects ofthe plurality of objects, may already be increased (or zoomed).Accordingly, adjusting contextual-zoom-focus from a first object to asecond object in smart-zoom-focus view may not involve furtherincreasing a size of the second object. Alternatively, if sizes of theplurality of objects were not increased during a transition from normalview to smart-zoom-focus view, a size of the second object may beincreased as contextual-zoom-focus shifts from the first object to thesecond object. Alternatively still, a size of the second object may beincreased or decreased based on calculations such that the second objectoccupies about 64% of the window.

In further embodiments, when contextual-zoom-focus is shifted from afirst object to a second object, context for the second object withrespect to the plurality of objects may be preserved in thesmart-zoom-focus view. As described above, the arrangement of theplurality of objects is fixed such that positions of the objects withrespect to one another are not altered between the normal view and thesmart-zoom-focus view. Accordingly, context for the second object withrespect to the plurality of objects may be preserved by at leastpartially displaying one or more objects that are positioned near thesecond object within the arrangement. Alternatively, context may bepreserved for the second object by displaying at least some white spacearound the contextual-zoom-focused object.

With reference to FIG. 1A, objects 106, 108 and 110 are positioned nearobject 112 in the arrangement of the plurality of objects. That is,objects 106, 108 and 110 are not substantially separated from object 112by intervening white space or other objects within the arrangement.

As illustrated by FIG. 1C, context is maintained for object 112 by atleast partially displaying nearby objects 108 and 110 in window 102. Forexample, object 108 is partially displayed to the north and the south ofobject 112 and object 110 is partially displayed along a northeasternedge of window 102.

As should be appreciated, embodiments illustrated and described withreference to FIGS. 1A-1C are provided for purposes of explanation andare not intended to be limiting. Indeed, the illustrated embodiments maybe suitable for application with any number of hardware, software, ornetwork environments whether or not explicitly described herein, e.g.,suitable for computing systems with or without touch screencapabilities, suitable over wide or local area networks, suitable usingweb-based or local presentation software, suitable in collaborative,shared or local environments, etc.

FIGS. 2A-2C illustrate embodiments of displaying content with contextualzoom focus in a slide presentation.

FIG. 2A illustrates embodiments of displaying content during apresentation. In embodiments, content may be displayed during apresentation in any suitable manner. For instance, content may bedisplayed in a collaborative or shared environment, in a live setting,via web based applications, etc. In some embodiments, a presentation maycomprise displaying content in discrete parts, or slides. Inembodiments, each slide of a presentation may comprise one or moreobjects. For example, an object may be any discrete item, e.g., a shape,a portion of text, an icon, an image, a hyperlink, a media file, etc.

Additionally, in some embodiments, an object may be associated with oneor more elements. As with objects, elements may be any discrete item.However, elements are associated with, related to, identified with,linked to, or in some way connected to an object. For example, an objectsuch as a shape may be associated with an element that describes theshape, such as a title or other text.

In further embodiments, an element may be associated with one or moresub-elements. As with objects and elements, sub-elements may be anydiscrete item. However, sub-elements are associated with, related to,identified with, linked to, or in some way connected to an element. Forexample, an element that is a shape may be associated with asub-element, such a hyperlink, which relates to the element. In someembodiments, objects, elements and sub-elements may be in a hierarchicalrelationship, but this is not necessary.

FIG. 2A illustrates a slide 202 of a presentation. For purposes of thisdisclosure, slide 202 may be referred to interchangeably as window 202.As illustrated, slide 202 displays object 204, object 210 and object216. For example, objects 204, 210 and 216 are gear shapes.

Additionally, as illustrated, object 204 comprises three elements, i.e.,elements 206, 208 and 222. Specifically, element 222 is a textual itemthat describes object 204 as “Topic A”; element 206 is a rectangularshape associated with object 204; and element 208 is an arrow shapeidentifying information about object 204, e.g., a direction of rotationfor the gear shape. In some embodiments, element 206 is associated withat least two sub-elements 224 and 226. Sub-elements 224 and 226 aretextual items associated with element 206 and object 204 that specify“Subtopic 1” and “Subtopic 2” (in some cases, bullet points may beconsidered part of sub-elements 224 and 226, in other cases bulletpoints may be considered sub-sub-elements associated with sub-elements224 and 226). In alternative embodiments, sub-elements 224 and 226 maybe associated or linked to element 222, i.e., “Topic A,” rather thanelement 206.

Similar to object 204, object 210 is associated with three elements,i.e., elements 212, 214 and 228. In this case, element 228 is a textualitem that describes object 210 as “Topic B”; element 212 is arectangular shape associated with object 210; and element 214 is anarrow shape identifying information about object 210, e.g., a directionof rotation for the gear shape. In some embodiments, element 212 isassociated with at least two sub-elements 230 and 232. Sub-elements 230and 232 are textual items associated with element 212 and object 210that specify “Subtopic 1” and “Subtopic 2” (in some cases, bullet pointsmay be considered part of sub-elements 230 and 232, in other casesbullet points may be considered sub-sub-elements associated withsub-elements 230 and 232). In alternative embodiments, sub-elements 230and 232 may be associated or linked to element 228, i.e., “Topic B,”rather than element 212.

Further still, object 216 is associated with three elements, i.e.,elements 218, 220 and 234. In this case, element 234 is a textual itemthat describes object 216 as “Topic C”; element 218 is a rectangularshape associated with object 216; and element 220 is an arrow shapeidentifying information about object 216, e.g., a direction of rotationfor the gear shape. In some embodiments, element 218 is associated withat least two sub-elements 236 and 238. Sub-elements 236 and 238 aretextual items associated with element 218 and object 216 that specify“Subtopic 1” and “Subtopic 2” (in some cases, bullet points may beconsidered part of sub-elements 236 and 238, in other cases bulletpoints may be considered sub-sub-elements associated with sub-elements236 and 238). In alternative embodiments, sub-elements 236 and 238 maybe associated or linked to element 234, i.e., “Topic B,” rather thanelement 218.

According to additional embodiments, the objects, elements, andsub-elements may be displayed in a configuration, or an arrangement,within slide 202. That is, with respect to a particular item (e.g.,object, element, or sub-element), some items (e.g., other objects,elements, or sub-elements), are displayed near the item and other itemsare displayed farther away from the item in the arrangement.

For example, object 204 is located near elements 206, 208 and objects210, 216 in the arrangement of items displayed on slide 202. That is,elements 206 and 208 and objects 210 and 216 are not substantiallyseparated from object 204 by intervening white space or other items.Object 204 is also near element 222, which is located within object 204and, accordingly, is not substantially separated from object 204 bywhite space and/or other items. In contrast, object 204 is farther awayfrom elements 214, 218, and 220 and sub-elements 236 and 238, which aresubstantially separated from object 204 by white space and/or by otheritems. One of skill in the art will appreciate that the configuration orarrangement of the plurality of items within slide 202 may be describedin a number of suitable ways.

In embodiments, when presenting content on slide 202, it may bedesirable to emphasize less than all of a plurality of items displayedon the slide 202. For example, it may be desirable to emphasize aparticular item or to guide a discussion from one item to another duringthe presentation. In other cases, it may be desirable to increase a sizeof an item for improved viewing or clarity of the item.

In embodiments, placing contextual-zoom-focus on an item (e.g., anobject, element or sub-element) may be triggered by receiving aselection of the item. In turn, selection of an item may be received bya double tap on or near the item using a stylus or touch. In otherembodiments, selection of an item may be received by a double click onor near the item using a mouse or short-cut keys on a keyboard. In stillother embodiments, selection of an item may be received by visibly orinvisibly drawing a shape around the item. In the illustratedembodiment, object 204 is selected by double tap 240.

FIG. 2B illustrates embodiments of content displayed with contextualzoom focus during a presentation.

In embodiments, when double tap 240 is received on or near object 204,contextual-zoom-focus is placed on object 204. For example,contextual-zoom-focus may include adjusting a view of slide 202 fromdisplaying the plurality of items to primarily displaying object 204.That is, in some embodiments, contextual-zoom-focus may involveincreasing a size of object 204 and repositioning object 204 to acentral area 242 of slide 202. In some cases, contextual-zoom-focus maybe animated, i.e., object 204 may perceptively increase in size andglide from a southeastern area of slide 202, as illustrated in FIG. 2A,to a central area 242 of slide 202, as illustrated by FIG. 2B. In othercases, contextual-zoom-focus may be immediate, i.e., the view of slide202 may quickly transition, or flash, from displaying object 204 in asoutheastern area of slide 202 to displaying an enlarged form of object204 in a central area 242 of slide 202.

In further embodiments, when contextual-zoom-focus is placed on an item,context for the contextual-zoom-focused item with respect to theplurality of items may be preserved. For example, as described above,the plurality of items may be arranged with respect to one another, asillustrated by FIG. 2A. Moreover, in embodiments, the arrangement of theplurality of items is fixed such that increasing the sizes of theplurality of items does not alter the positions of the items withrespect to one another. Accordingly, context for thecontextual-zoom-focused item (e.g., object 204) with respect to theplurality of items may be preserved by at least partially displaying oneor more items (e.g., objects 210 and 216, elements 206, 208, 212 and222, and sub-elements 224 and 226) that are positioned near thecontextual-zoom-focused item within the arrangement.

According to further embodiments, when a slide is in a smart-zoom-focusview, a selection of an element may be received to further applycontextual-zoom-focus to the view, or ultra-focus the view. As describedabove, selection of an element may be received by a double tap on ornear the element using a stylus or touch. In other embodiments,selection of an element may be received by a double click on or near theelement using a mouse or short-cut keys on a keyboard. In still otherembodiments, selection of an element may be received by visibly orinvisibly drawing a shape around the element, e.g., a circular shape. Inthe illustrated embodiment, element 206 is selected by double tap 244.

FIG. 2C illustrates embodiments of content displayed with additionalcontextual zoom focus during a presentation.

In embodiments, when double tap 244 is received on or near element 206,ultra-focus is placed on element 206. Similar to contextual-zoom-focus,as described above, ultra-focus may include adjusting a view of slide202 from primarily displaying object 204 to primarily displaying element206. Additionally, in some embodiments, ultra-focus may involve furtherincreasing a size of element 206 and repositioning element 206 to acentral area 242 of slide 202. Similar to contextual-zoom-focus,ultra-focus may be animated, i.e., element 206 may perceptively increasein size and glide from a southwestern area of slide 202, as illustratedin FIG. 2B, to a central area 242 of slide 202, as illustrated by FIG.2C. In other cases, ultra-focus may be immediate, i.e., the view ofslide 202 may quickly transition, or flash, from displaying element 206in a southwestern area of slide 202 to displaying an enlarged form ofelement 206 in a central area 242 of slide 202.

In further embodiments, similar to contextual-zoom-focus, whenultra-focus is placed on an item, context for the ultra-focused itemwith respect to the plurality of items may be preserved. As illustrated,context for element 206 with respect to the plurality of items may bepreserved by at least partially displaying one or more items (e.g.,objects 204 and 210, element 222, and sub-elements 224 and 226) that arepositioned near element 206 within the arrangement.

According to additional embodiments, when a slide is in ultra-focusview, a selection may be received to return to smart-zoom-focus view.For example, to return to smart-zoom-focus view, a double tap or adouble click may be received in white space of slide 202. Inembodiments, when returning to smart-zoom-focus view, a size of theultra-focused item (e.g., element 206) and sizes of other items (e.g.,objects 204 and 210, element 222, and sub-elements 224 and 226) maydecrease. Additionally, a position of the ultra-focused object may shiftfrom the central area 242 of slide 202 to its position insmart-zoom-focus view, e.g., a southwestern corner of slide 202, asillustrated by FIG. 2B. To return to normal view, as described above, anadditional double tap or double click may be received in white space ofslide 202.

In the illustrated embodiment, a double tap 246 is received in whitespace southwest of element 206.

As should be appreciated, embodiments illustrated and described withreference to FIGS. 2A-2C are provided for purposes of explanation andare not intended to be limiting. Indeed, the illustrated embodiments maybe suitable for application with any number of hardware, software, ornetwork environments whether or not explicitly described herein, e.g.,suitable for computing systems with or without touch screencapabilities, suitable over wide or local area networks, suitable usingweb-based or local presentation software, suitable in collaborative,shared or local environments, etc.

FIGS. 3A-3D illustrate embodiments of displaying content by adjusting azoom level.

FIG. 3A illustrates embodiments of content displayed in a window 302. Insome embodiments, window 302 may be equipped with a touch screen. Asillustrated, the displayed content includes a plurality of objects. Forexample, objects 304-314 are hexagonal shapes. Objects 304-314 furtherinclude one or more elements. For example, object 304 includes element318, which is a textual letter “A,” and element 320, which is ahexagonal shape. Objects 308 and 312 are illustrated with similarelements. Additionally, object 306 includes element 322, which is animage, and element 324, which is a hexagonal shape. Objects 310 and 314are illustrated with similar elements.

Additionally, the plurality of objects is displayed in a configuration,or an arrangement, within window 302. For example, object 304 is nearobjects 306, 308, 312 and 314 in the arrangement of objects displayed inwindow 302, i.e., object 304 is not substantially separated from objects306, 308, 312 and 314 by white space or other objects. In contrast,object 304 is farther away from object 310, which is substantiallyseparated from object 304 by white space and by object 308. One of skillin the art will appreciate that the configuration or arrangement of theplurality of objects within window 302 may be described in a number ofsuitable ways.

In embodiments, when viewing or presenting content in window 302, it maybe desirable to emphasize less than all of a plurality of objects. Inembodiments, placing contextual-zoom-focus on an object may be triggeredby receiving a selection of the object. As described above, selection ofan object may be received by a double tap or a double click on or nearthe object. Alternatively, selection of an object may be received byvisibly or invisibly drawing a shape on the object, e.g., a circularshape. In embodiments, a line identifying the shape may or may not becompletely continuous around the shape. For example, a circle ortriangle may not be completely closed. Moreover, in embodiments, theshape may not be precisely circular or rectangular, etc. That is, thesystem may recognize a shape around or on an object whether or not theshape is precisely or accurately drawn. As used herein, a shape“substantially enclosing” an object shall refer to a line or lines thatcreate or approximate a closed shape drawn substantially on or aroundthe object. In addition, as used herein, a shape that is drawn “around”an object shall also refer to a shape drawn “on” an object (e.g., whereone or more edges of the object protrude beyond the line(s) of theshape). In the illustrated embodiment, object 304 is selected by drawinga visible circle within object 304 using a stylus or touch, i.e., circle316.

FIG. 3B illustrates embodiments of content displayed with contextualzoom focus in window 302.

In embodiments, when circle 316 is received within object 304,contextual-zoom-focus is placed on object 304. As described above,contextual-zoom-focus may involve increasing a size of object 304 andrepositioning object 304 to a central area 326 of window 302. Inembodiments, an extent to which the size of object 304 is increased maybe based at least in part on a size of circle 316. For example, thesmaller the size of circle 316, the greater the increase in size (orzoom) of object 304. Conversely, the larger the size of circle 316, thesmaller the increase in size (or zoom) of object 304. As describedabove, contextual-zoom-focus may be animated, immediate, or somecombination thereof.

In further embodiments, when contextual-zoom-focus is placed on anobject, context for the contextual-zoom-focused object with respect tothe plurality of objects may be preserved. For example, context for thecontextual-zoom-focused object (e.g., object 304) with respect to theplurality of objects may be preserved by at least partially displayingone or more objects (e.g., objects 306, 308, 312 and 314) that arepositioned near the contextual-zoom-focused object within thearrangement.

As described above, when a window is in smart-zoom-focus view, aselection may be received to return to normal view. For example, adouble tap or a double click may be received in white space of window302. In embodiments, when returning to normal view, a size of thecontextual-zoom-focused object (e.g., object 304) and sizes of otherobjects (e.g., objects 306, 308, 312 and 314) may decrease.Additionally, a position of the contextual-zoom-focused object may shiftfrom the central area 326 of window 302 to its original position innormal view, e.g., a northwestern area of window 302, as illustrated byFIG. 3A. As described above, in embodiments, returning to normal viewmay be animated, immediate, or some combination thereof. As illustrated,double tap 328 is received in white space of window 302 to return tonormal view.

FIG. 3C illustrates embodiments for adjusting a zoom level.

In embodiments, when double tap 328 is received in white space of window302, the view of window 302 returns to normal view from smart-zoom-focusview. Accordingly, the view of window 302 in FIG. 3C is substantiallythe same as the view of window 302 in FIG. 3A. As described above,selection of an object for contextual-zoom-focus may be received byvisibly or invisibly drawing a shape on the object, e.g., a circularshape.

In the illustrated embodiment, object 312 is selected by drawing avisible circle around object 312 using a stylus or touch, i.e., circle330. According to embodiments, circle 330, which is drawn around object312, is larger than circle 316, which is drawn within 304.

FIG. 3D illustrates embodiments of content displayed with an adjustedzoom in window 302.

In embodiments, when circle 330 is received around object 312,contextual-zoom-focus is placed on object 312. As described above,contextual-zoom-focus may involve increasing a size of object 312 andrepositioning object 312 to a central area 326 of window 302. Asdescribed above, the extent to which the size of object 312 is increasedmay be based at least in part on the size of circle 330. For example,the smaller the size of circle 330, the greater the increase in size (orzoom) of object 312. Conversely, the larger the size of circle 330, thesmaller the increase in size (or zoom) of object 312. As describedabove, contextual-zoom-focus may be animated, immediate, or somecombination thereof.

As provided above, circle 330 is larger than circle 316. Accordingly,the increased size of object 304, as illustrated in smart-zoom-focusview by FIG. 3B, is larger than the increased size of object 312, asillustrated in smart-zoom-focus view by FIG. 3D.

As should be appreciated, embodiments illustrated and described withreference to FIGS. 3A-3D are provided for purposes of explanation andare not intended to be limiting. Indeed, the illustrated embodiments maybe suitable for application with any number of hardware, software, ornetwork environments whether or not explicitly described herein, e.g.,suitable for computing systems with or without touch screencapabilities, suitable over wide or local area networks, suitable usingweb-based or local presentation software, suitable in collaborative,shared or local environments, etc.

FIGS. 4A-4D illustrate embodiments of displaying content with contextualzoom focus in a document.

FIG. 4A illustrates an embodiment of displaying content in a document400. Similar to embodiments described above, aspects of contextual zoomfocus may also be provided for viewing or presenting a document. Inembodiments, content may be viewed or presented in a document in anysuitable manner. For instance, the document may be viewed in a window401 of a computing device in a collaborative or shared environment or ina local environment. In some embodiments, the computing device may beequipped with a touch screen. As illustrated, document 400 fills window401 in a portrait orientation. In embodiments, the document may compriseone or more items (objects, elements, sub-elements, etc.) such asshapes, text, icons, images, hyperlinks, media files, etc. Document 400is a single-page brochure; however, any type of document would besuitable for purposes of the present disclosure, e.g., a word processingdocument, a spreadsheet, a document in portable document format (PDF),etc.

As illustrated, document 400 comprises various items, as defined above,such as objects 402, 404, 406, 408, 412, 416 and 418. In embodiments,objects 402, 416 and 418 are images; objects 404 and 408 are shapes;object 406 is textual; and object 412 is a hyperlink. Further, asillustrated, at least some of the objects comprise one or more elements.For example, object 404 includes text elements, and object 408 includesboth text elements and a media file 414.

In embodiments, the objects and elements may be displayed in aconfiguration, or an arrangement, within document 400. That is, withrespect to a particular item (e.g., object or element), some items(e.g., other objects and elements) are displayed near the item and otheritems are displayed farther away from the item in the arrangement.

For example, object 416 is located near objects 402 and 404 in thearrangement of items displayed in document 400. That is, object 416 isnot substantially separated from objects 402 and 404 by interveningwhite space or other items. In contrast, object 416 is farther away fromobjects 406, 408, 412 and 418, which are substantially separated fromobject 416 by white space and/or other items.

In embodiments, when presenting document 400, it may be desirable toemphasize less than all of the plurality of items. In the illustratedembodiment, an object is selected for contextual-zoom-focus by drawingan invisible circle 410, e.g., by stylus or touch (identified by adashed line), on a portion of the document. In embodiments, an objectclosest to the center of an invisible circle is selected forcontextual-zoom-focus. In this case, while circle 410 overlaps objects402, 404 and 416, object 416 is closest to the center of circle 410 andis selected for contextual-zoom-focus.

FIG. 4B illustrates embodiments of content displayed with contextualzoom focus in a document.

In embodiments, when invisible circle 410 is received on or near object416, contextual-zoom-focus is placed on object 416. For example,contextual-zoom-focus may include adjusting a view of window 401 fromdisplaying the plurality of items to primarily displaying object 416. Insome embodiments, to best accommodate a contextual-zoom-focused object,an orientation of window 401 may be adjusted, e.g., between portrait andlandscape orientation. In the illustrated embodiment, the orientation ofwindow 401 is adjusted to landscape orientation. In further embodiments,contextual-zoom-focus may involve increasing a size of object 416 andrepositioning object 416 to a central area 420 of window 401.

Additionally, in embodiments, when contextual-zoom-focus is placed on anitem, context for the contextual-zoom-focused item with respect to theplurality of items in document 400 may be preserved. For example, asdescribed above, the plurality of items may be arranged with respect toone another, as illustrated by FIG. 4A. In some embodiments, context forthe contextual-zoom-focused item (e.g., object 416) with respect to theplurality of items may be preserved by at least partially displaying oneor more items (e.g., objects 402 and 404) that are positioned near thecontextual-zoom-focused item.

According to further embodiments, when a slide is in a smart-zoom-focusview, a selection may be received to return to normal view. As describedabove, a selection to return to normal view may be received by a doubletap or a double click in white space. In the illustrated embodiment,double tap 422 is received in white space of window 401. Upon returningto normal view, the document is displayed in window 401 as illustratedby FIG. 4A.

FIG. 4C illustrates embodiments of content displayed with contextualzoom focus in a document.

Upon returning to normal view, additional selections may be received forviewing or presenting document 400. For example, object 412 may beselected. Object 412 is a hyperlink to a website, i.e.,http://abcnurseries.com. In embodiments, a single tap or click on object412 in normal view opens a browser for viewing the website. In someembodiments, a window for the browser may be opened in addition towindow 401, and both windows may be displayed within an available areaof the touch screen or other display device (not shown). For example, insome embodiments, each window may occupy about 50% of the availabledisplay area; alternatively, each window may occupy any other suitableportion or percentage of the display area. In embodiments, selection ofa hyperlink by a single click or tap operates in a similar fashion whenthe hyperlink is provided in a presentation slide or other displayedcontent, as described with reference to FIGS. 1A-3D.

Alternatively, object 412 may be selected for contextual-zoom-focus. Asdescribed above, object 412 may be selected for contextual-zoom-focus bya double tap or click, or by a visible or invisible circle, on or nearobject 412. Upon selecting object 412 for contextual-zoom-focus, a sizeof object 412 may be increased and object 412 may be repositioned to acentral area 420 of window 401. Moreover, an orientation of window 401may be adjusted, e.g., from portrait to landscape orientation. Asillustrated, an enlarged form of the hyperlink for the above website maybe displayed in a central area 420 of window 401 in landscapeorientation. Moreover, a context for object 412 may be preserved insmart-zoom-focus view, i.e., other objects positioned near object 412(e.g., portions of object 406 and object 418) may be at least partiallydisplayed in window 401. As described above, applyingcontextual-zoom-focus on object 412 may be animated, immediate, or somecombination thereof.

When in smart-zoom-focus view, for example, a single tap or click onobject 412 may open a browser for viewing the website. In someembodiments, a window for the browser may be opened in addition towindow 401, and both windows may be displayed within an available areaof the touch screen or other display device (not shown). For example, insome embodiments, each window may occupy about 50% of the availabledisplay area; alternatively, each window may occupy any other suitableportion or percentage of the display area. In further embodiments, whena browser window is opened in addition to window 401, the view in window401 may automatically return to normal view from smart-zoom-focus view(not shown).

In further embodiments, a selection may be received to return to normalview from smart-zoom-focus view. As described above, a selection toreturn to normal view may be received by a double tap or a double clickin white space. Alternatively, in the case of a hyperlink, a selectionto return to normal view may be received by a double tap or a doubleclick on or near the hyperlink. In the illustrated embodiment, doubletap 424 is received on the hyperlink. Upon returning to normal view, thedocument is displayed in window 401 as illustrated by FIG. 4A.

FIG. 4D illustrates embodiments of content displayed with contextualzoom focus in a document.

In alternative embodiments, upon returning to normal view, otherportions of document 400 may be selected. For example, a selection ofelement 414 may be received. Element 414 is a media file, e.g., a videofile in Windows® media video (.wmv) format. In embodiments, a single tapor click on object 414 will play the media file.

Alternatively, in normal view, an object may be selected forcontextual-zoom-focus. For example, object 408 may be selected forcontextual-zoom-focus. As described above, object 408 may be selectedfor contextual-zoom-focus by a double tap or click, or a visible orinvisible circle, on or near object 408. Upon selecting object 408 forcontextual-zoom-focus, a size of object 408 may be increased and object408 may be repositioned to a central area 420 of window 401. Moreover, acontext for object 408 may be preserved in smart-zoom-focus view, e.g.,other objects positioned near object 408 (e.g., portions of object 406and object 404, and element 414) may be at least partially displayed inwindow 401. As described above, applying contextual-zoom-focus on object408 may be animated, immediate, or some combination thereof.

When in smart-zoom-focus view, for example, element 414 may be selected.In some embodiments, a single tap or click on element 414 will play themedia file. In alternative embodiments, element 414 may be selected forultra-focus by a double tap or click, or a visible or invisible circle,on or near object 414. Upon selecting object 414 for ultra-focus, a sizeof object 414 may be increased and object 414 may be repositioned to acentral area 420 of window 401. Moreover, a context for object 414 maybe preserved in ultra-focus view, i.e., other objects positioned nearobject 414 (e.g., portions of object 408) may be at least partiallydisplayed in window 401 (not shown). Further still, when in ultra-focusview, a single tap or click on element 414 may play the media file.

In further embodiments, when in ultra-focus view, a selection may bereceived to return to smart-zoom-focus view. As described above, aselection to return to smart-zoom-focus view may be received by a doubletap or a double click in white space. Upon returning to smart-zoom-focusview, the document is displayed in window 401 as illustrated by FIG. 4D.

As described above, when in smart-zoom-focus view, a selection may bereceived to return to normal view. As described above, a selection toreturn to normal view may be received by a double tap or a double clickin white space. Upon returning to normal view, the document is displayedin window 401 as illustrated by FIG. 4A.

As should be appreciated, embodiments illustrated and described withreference to FIGS. 4A-4D are provided for purposes of explanation andare not intended to be limiting. Indeed, the illustrated embodiments maybe suitable for application with any number of hardware, software, ornetwork environments whether or not explicitly described herein, e.g.,suitable for computing systems with or without touch screencapabilities, suitable over wide or local area networks, suitable usingweb-based or local presentation software, suitable in collaborative,shared or local environments, etc.

FIGS. 5A-5D illustrate embodiments for displaying content with dynamiczoom focus.

FIG. 5A illustrates an embodiment for displaying content. For example,content may be viewed in any suitable manner, e.g., in a window 502 of acomputing device. In some embodiments, the computing device may beequipped with a touch screen.

As described above, content that is displayed or presented in real time,e.g., during a presentation, collaborative viewing, or other display ofthe content, is provided in a presentation mode. In contrast, duringpreparations for a subsequent presentation or display of content,content may be accessed and manipulated in an edit mode. Unless statedotherwise, embodiments described herein are illustrated in presentationmode.

As illustrated, the displayed content is an image of a map. As describedabove, content may comprise one or more portions (elements,sub-elements, etc.) such as shapes, text, icons, images, hyperlinks,media files, etc. As illustrated, the displayed content compriseselements 504, 506 and 508, which are circular shapes identifyinglocations on the map.

FIG. 5B illustrates an embodiment for progressively displayingdynamic-zoom-focused content.

In embodiments, when viewing or presenting content in window 502, it maybe desirable to emphasize less than all of the content. For example, itmay be desirable to emphasize a particular portion of content or toguide a discussion from one element of the content to another during apresentation. In other cases, it may be desirable to increase a size ofa portion of content to improve viewing or clarity of the displayedcontent. Moreover, in some situations, it may be desirable to emphasizecontent in an ordered or sequential fashion.

In embodiments, content that is displayed or presented in real time,e.g., during a presentation, collaborative viewing, or other display ofthe content, is provided in a presentation mode. Additionally, during apresentation mode, a slide (or document, image, etc.) can be provided intwo or more additional modes, e.g., a first control mode and a secondaudience mode. That is, a speaker or presenter can be operating acomputer, tablet or smartphone that displays the slide on the computer,tablet or smartphone to the speaker or presenter. The slide is alsoseparately displayed to an audience via a wired or wireless connectionto a projector or other external display. The speaker or presenter canactivate commands or controls that are visible on the display viewed bythe speaker or presenter, but the presence of the commands and controlsare not visible to the audience. In essence, the presenter or speakerviews and accesses a control mode of the slide, while the audience viewsthe audience mode of the slide. In embodiments associated with thepresentation mode, as illustrated by FIG. 5B and described in moredetail below, the invisible circles 510, 512, and 514 (identified bydashed lines) are viewable by the speaker or presenter in the controlmode of the slide, but the audience only sees the slide content zooming,focusing and moving in the audience mode of the slide that is separatelydisplayed to the audience.

In embodiments, placing dynamic-zoom-focus on a portion of content, orelement, may be triggered by receiving a selection of the element. Inturn, selection of the element may be received by a double tap on ornear the element using a stylus or touch. In other embodiments,selection of the element may be received by a double click on or nearthe element using a mouse or short-cut keys on a keyboard. In stillother embodiments, selection of the element may be received by visiblyor invisibly drawing a shape around the element, e.g., a circular shape.

As described above, placing dynamic-zoom-focus on an element may includeincreasing a size of the content and centering the element within aviewing window. That is, in embodiments, the image of the map mayincrease in size (zoom) and the element may be repositioned to a centralarea of the window (focus). Additionally, in some cases,dynamic-zoom-focus may be animated, i.e., the content may perceptivelyincrease in size and the element may glide to a central area of theviewing window.

In embodiments, a sequence for progressively displaying content(dynamic) may be received by serially selecting elements. In someembodiments, serial selection of elements may be received during a livepresentation or display of content, e.g., during a presentation mode.For example, a first selection of a first element may be received, andthen a second selection of a second element may be received, and then athird selection of a third element may be received, and so on.

In embodiments, the first selection, second selection and thirdselection may be received within a selection delay period. The selectiondelay period is a period of time after the first selection and beforefocus is placed on the first element. If additional selections are madeduring the selection delay period, serialized dynamic-zoom-focus isinitiated on each subsequently selected element. If additionalselections are not made during the selection delay period,contextual-zoom-focus may be placed on the first element.

As illustrated by FIG. 5B, a first selection 510 of element 504 may bereceived in window 502. In this example, first selection 510 is aninvisible circle drawn around element 504 (identified by a dashed line).Thereafter, a second selection 512 of element 506 may be received inwindow 502, the second selection 512 consisting of an invisible circledrawn around element 506 (identified by a dashed line). Thereafter, athird selection 514 of element 508 may be received in window 502, thethird selection 514 consisting of an invisible circle drawn aroundelement 508 (identified by a dashed line).

According to embodiments, based on the received serial selections,dynamic-zoom-focus may be placed on the first element, and thendynamic-zoom-focus may be placed on the second element, and thendynamic-zoom-focus may be placed on the third element, etc. In someembodiments, a predetermined delay period may be set between displayingthe first dynamic-zoom-focused element and the seconddynamic-zoom-focused element. In this case, dynamic-zoom-focus may beplaced on the first element and, after the predetermined delay period,dynamic-zoom-focus may automatically shift to the second element, andafter the predetermined delay period, dynamic-zoom-focus mayautomatically shift to the third element. In alternative embodiments,dynamic-zoom-focus may shift from the first element to the secondelement upon receiving a first control input, and dynamic-zoom-focus mayshift from the second element to the third element upon receiving asecond control input.

In some embodiments, dynamic-zoom-focus may be placed on the firstelement 504 by increasing a size of first element 504 and repositioningthe first element 504 to a central area of window 502. Additionally, inembodiments, context may be maintained for the first element 504 by atleast partially displaying one or more nearby elements to element 504 inwindow 502, as described above with respect to contextual-zoom-focus.Thereafter, dynamic-zoom-focus may be placed on second element 506 byincreasing a size of second element 506, repositioning the secondelement 506 to a central area of window 502, and maintaining context forsecond element 506. Thereafter, dynamic-zoom-focus may be placed onthird element 508 by increasing a size of third element 508,repositioning the third element 508 to a central area of window 502, andmaintaining context for third element 508.

In other embodiments, a size of the content as a whole may be increasedwhen dynamic-zoom-focus is placed on the first element 504 and,thereafter, the view may shift to the second element 506 and then to thethird element 508 without independently increasing the size of eachelement. In this case, the image of the map displayed in window 502 maybe increased and first element 504 may be repositioned to a central areaof window 502, while maintaining context for first element 504.Thereafter, dynamic-zoom-focus may be placed on second element 506 byrepositioning the second element 506 to a central area of window 502,while maintaining context for second element 506, and thendynamic-zoom-focus may be placed on third element 508 by repositioningthe third element 508 to a central area of window 502, while maintainingcontext for the third element 508.

In some cases, shifting dynamic-zoom-focus from a first element to asecond element, and then from a second element to a third element may beanimated. For example, the second element may perceptively glide intothe central area of window 502, replacing the first element. Thereafter,the third element may perceptively glide into the central area of window502, replacing the second element. In other cases, shiftingdynamic-zoom-focus may be immediate, i.e., the view of window 502 mayquickly transition, or flash, from displaying first element 504 in acentral area of window 502, to displaying second element 506 in thecentral area of window 502, to displaying third element 508 in thecentral area of window 502.

FIG. 5C illustrates an embodiment for progressively displayingdynamic-zoom-focused content along a path.

As described above, when viewing or presenting content in window 502, itmay be desirable to emphasize less than all of the content. For example,it may be desirable to emphasize a particular portion of content or toguide a discussion from one element of the content to another during apresentation. In other cases, it may be desirable to increase a size ofa portion of content to improve viewing or clarity of the displayedcontent. With reference to FIG. 5B, embodiments for emphasizing contentin an ordered or sequential fashion are described. In this case,dynamic-zoom-focus shifts from one selected portion of content toanother, but intervening content may not be displayed. Accordingly, itmay also be desirable to emphasize content in a sequential fashion,while also allowing intervening content to be viewed.

As described above, content that is displayed or presented in real time,e.g., during a presentation, collaborative viewing, or other display ofthe content, is provided in a presentation mode. For example, during apresentation mode, a slide can be provided in two or more additionalmodes, e.g., a first control mode and a second audience mode. Inembodiments associated with the presentation mode, as illustrated byFIG. 5C and described in more detail below, the invisible circles 510,512, and 514 (identified by dashed lines), and the connectors 516 and518 (identified by dashed lines), are viewable by the speaker orpresenter in the control mode of the slide, but the audience only seesthe slide content zooming, focusing and moving in the audience mode ofthe slide that is separately displayed to the audience.

In embodiments, an indication of a path for progressively displayingdynamic-zoom-focused content may be received by identifying a connectorbetween a first element and a second element of the content. In someembodiments, the first element and the second element may not beotherwise selected for dynamic-zoom-focus, but may signify a startingpoint and an ending point for displaying the content in a sequentialfashion. In other embodiments, the first element and the second elementmay further be selected for dynamic-zoom-focus. In the embodiment shown,elements are first selected for dynamic-zoom-focus and then connectorsbetween elements are identified; however, in other embodiments, aconnector may first be identified and then elements may be selected fordynamic-zoom-focus. In either embodiment, a first element selected mayindicate a starting point and a last element selected may indicate anending point for the path.

In embodiments, a connector may consist of a visible line or aninvisible line, e.g., drawn by a stylus or by touch, between the firstand second elements. In some cases, the connector may consist of asubstantially straight line between the first and second elements.Alternatively, the connector may consist of a substantially curved ortwisted line between the first and second elements. Alternatively still,the connector may consist of any combination thereof.

In further embodiments, a plurality of connectors may be received. Insome embodiments, a second connector may be identified between thesecond element and a third element. In other embodiments, a secondconnector may be identified between a third element and a fourthelement. Thus, connectors between elements may be continuous ordiscontinuous and any number of connectors may be identified. Asillustrated, a first connector 516 may be received between first element504 and second element 506; and a second connector 518 may be receivedbetween second element 506 and third element 508. As illustrated, firstconnector 516 is a substantially straight, invisible line (representedby a dashed line); and second connector 518 is also a substantiallystraight, invisible line (represented by a dashed line).

In some embodiments, in addition to identifying the connectors, one ormore portions of content, or elements, may also be selected fordynamic-zoom-focus. For example, a first selection 510 of element 504may be received in window 502. In this example, first selection 510 isan invisible circle drawn around element 504 (identified by a dashedline). Thereafter, a second selection 512 of element 506 may be receivedin window 502, the second selection 512 consisting of an invisiblecircle drawn around element 506 (identified by a dashed line).Thereafter, a third selection 514 of element 508 may be received inwindow 502, the third selection 514 consisting of an invisible circledrawn around element 508 (identified by a dashed line). In embodiments,identification of connectors and selection of elements may be receivedduring a live presentation or display of content, e.g., in apresentation mode.

According to embodiments, content may be dynamic-zoom-focused along apath between two elements, as determined by the received connector. Thatis, when a connector is substantially straight, dynamic-zoom-focus mayfollow a substantially straight path between the two elements.Alternatively, when a connector substantially curved or twisted,dynamic-zoom-focus may follow a substantially curved or twisted pathbetween the two elements.

A described above, a first element may signify a starting point for thepath. In order to follow the path, in embodiments, a size of the contentmay be increased (or zoomed), the starting point may be repositioned toa central area of window 502, and context may be maintained for thestarting point within the content. If the first element was not selectedfor dynamic-zoom-focus, dynamic-zoom-focus may glide away from the firstelement along the path toward the second element. In embodiments, theview may be continuously adjusted such that the path falls in thecentral area of the window as content is displayed. Accordingly, inembodiments, content along the path and on either side of the path isdisplayed in window 502. Moreover, in at least some embodiments, thepath itself (such as the line) is not displayed in window 502.Additionally, for example, the view may glide along the path at aparticular rate, e.g., a default rate or a rate selected by a user.

In alternative embodiments, if the first element was selected fordynamic-zoom-focus, dynamic-zoom-focus may remain on the first elementbefore starting to glide along the path. In some cases,dynamic-zoom-focus may remain on the first element for a predetermineddelay period. In other cases, dynamic-zoom-focus may remain on the firstelement until a control input is received.

As may be appreciated, one or more elements may be selected fordynamic-zoom-focus along the path between the first and second elements(not shown). In this case, according to embodiments, dynamic-zoom-focusmay glide along the path until the selected element is positioned in acentral area of window 512. Dynamic-zoom-focus may remain on theselected element for a predetermined delay period, or until a controlinput is received.

As illustrated by FIG. 5C, element 504 was selected fordynamic-zoom-focus. Thus, according to embodiments, dynamic-zoom-focusmay be placed on element 504 by increasing a size of the content,repositioning element 504 to a central area of window 502, andmaintaining context for element 504 in window 502. Dynamic-zoom-focusmay remain on element 504 for a predetermined delay period or until acontrol input is received.

After a predetermined delay period, or upon receiving a control input,dynamic-zoom-focus may proceed to float along a path determined byconnector 516 toward element 506. In this case, in embodiments, the viewof window 502 may be continuously adjusted such that the path falls in acentral area of the window as content is displayed. In furtherembodiments, content on either side of the path is displayed in window502. In some embodiments, the view may glide along the path at aparticular rate, e.g., a default rate or a rate selected by a user.

As illustrated, element 506 was also selected for dynamic-zoom-focus.Dynamic-zoom-focus may be placed on element 506 by repositioning element506 to a central area of window 502 and maintaining context for element506 in window 502. Dynamic-zoom-focus may remain on element 506 for apredetermined delay period or until a control input is received.

After a predetermined delay period, or upon receiving a control input,dynamic-zoom-focus may proceed to float along a path determined byconnector 518 toward element 508. In this case, in embodiments, the viewof window 502 may be continuously adjusted such that the path falls in acentral area of the window as content is displayed. In furtherembodiments, content on either side of the path is displayed in window502. In embodiments, in addition to maintaining context for elementsselected for dynamic-zoom-focus, context may be maintained within thecontent as the view flows through the content. That is, context may beprovided by displaying various elements along the path based on anarrangement of the elements within the content.

Element 508 was also selected for dynamic-zoom-focus. Thus, according toembodiments, dynamic-zoom-focus may be placed on element 508 byrepositioning element 508 to a central area of window 502 andmaintaining context for element 508 in window 502. Dynamic-zoom-focusmay remain on element 508 for a predetermined delay period or until acontrol input is received.

FIG. 5D illustrates an alternative embodiment for progressivelydisplaying dynamic-zoom-focused content along a path.

As described above, an indication of a path for progressively displayingdynamic-zoom-focused content may be received by identifying a connectorbetween a first element and a second element during a presentation mode.Alternatively, as illustrated by FIG. 5D, an indication of a pathbetween a first and second element may be received during an edit mode.

In embodiments, content that is displayed or presented in real time,e.g., during a presentation, collaborative viewing, or other display ofthe content, is provided in a presentation mode. For example, duringpresentation mode, a slide can be provided in two or more additionalmodes, e.g., a first control mode and a second audience mode, asdescribed above.

In contrast, during preparations for a subsequent presentation ordisplay of content, content may be accessed and manipulated in an editmode. An edit mode may be provided in a presentation application, suchas Microsoft® PowerPoint®, but edit modes for other applications mayalso be applicable. Generally, an edit mode allows one to create andmodify content for later display or presentation. As illustrated by FIG.5D, an edit mode of a presentation application 500 may comprise multiplewindows or panes for viewing content. For example, slide pane 501 maydisplay a minimized copy of each slide in the presentation, and editpane 503 may display an enlarged view of a slide that is currently beingcreated or edited.

In embodiments, a connector between two elements of content may bereceived during an edit mode. As detailed above, a connector may consistof a line between the first and second elements. Although the connectormay be drawn as a visible line in the edit mode, the connector may notbe displayed during presentation mode. In some cases, the connector mayconsist of a substantially straight line between the first and secondelements. Alternatively, the connector may consist of a substantiallycurved or twisted line between the first and second elements.Alternatively still, the connector may consist of any combinationthereof.

Similar to connectors received during presentation mode, a plurality ofconnectors may be received during edit mode. In some embodiments, asecond connector may be identified between the second element and athird element. In other embodiments, a second connector may beidentified between a third element and a fourth element. Thus,connectors between elements may be continuous or discontinuous and anynumber of connectors may be identified. As illustrated, a firstconnector 520 may be received between first element 504 and secondelement 506 in the edit pane 503. Additionally, a second connector 522may be received between second element 506 and third element 508. Asillustrated, first connector 520 is a substantially twisted, visibleline; and second connector 522 is also a substantially twisted, visibleline.

In some embodiments, in addition to identifying the connectors, one ormore portions of content, or elements, may also be selected fordynamic-zoom-focus in an edit mode. As illustrated, elements 504, 506and 508 were not selected for dynamic-zoom-focus.

After receiving connectors and selected elements during edit mode, thepresentation application 500 is placed into presentation mode fordisplay of the content. Accordingly, in embodiments,dynamic-zoom-focused display of content along a path would proceed inthe same or similar way as described above with reference to FIG. 5C.

As should be appreciated, embodiments illustrated and described withreference to FIGS. 5A-5D are provided for purposes of explanation andare not intended to be limiting. Indeed, the illustrated embodiments maybe suitable for application with any number of hardware, software, ornetwork environments whether or not explicitly described herein, e.g.,suitable for computing systems with or without touch screencapabilities, suitable over wide or local area networks, suitable usingweb-based or local presentation software, suitable in collaborative,shared or local environments, etc.

FIGS. 6A-6C illustrate additional embodiments for displaying contentwith dynamic zoom focus.

FIG. 6A illustrates an embodiment for displaying content. For example,content may be viewed in any suitable manner, e.g., in a window 602 of acomputing device. In some embodiments, the computing device may beequipped with a touch screen.

As illustrated, the displayed content is an image of a chronologicalmap. As described above, content may comprise one or more portions(elements, sub-elements, etc.) such as shapes, text, icons, images,hyperlinks, media files, etc. As illustrated, the displayed contentcomprises elements 604, 606, 608 and 610, which are images ofprehistoric animals. The displayed content further displays variousother elements, such as images of mountains (e.g., element 612), imagesof land masses (e.g., element 614), and images of bodies of water (e.g.,element 616).

FIG. 6B illustrates an embodiment for progressively displayingdynamic-zoom-focused content.

In embodiments, when viewing or presenting content in window 602, it maybe desirable to emphasize less than all of the content. For example, itmay be desirable to emphasize a particular portion of content and/or toguide a discussion from one element of the content to another during apresentation. In other cases, it may be desirable to increase a size ofa portion of content to improve viewing or clarity of the displayedcontent. Moreover, in some situations, it may be desirable to emphasizecontent in an ordered or sequential fashion.

In embodiments, placing dynamic-zoom-focus on a portion of content, orelement, may be triggered by receiving a selection of the element. Inturn, selection of the element may be received by a double tap on ornear the element using a stylus or touch. In other embodiments,selection of the element may be received by a double click on or nearthe element using a mouse or short-cut keys on a keyboard. In stillother embodiments, selection of the element may be received by visiblyor invisibly drawing a shape around the element, e.g., a circular shape.

As described above, placing dynamic-zoom-focus on an element may includeincreasing a size of the content and centering the element within aviewing window. That is, in embodiments, the image of the map mayincrease in size (zoom) and the element may be repositioned to a centralarea of the window (focus). Moreover, context may be maintained for theobject by at least partially displaying one or more nearby elements inthe window. Additionally, in some cases, dynamic-zoom-focus may beanimated, i.e., the content may perceptively increase in size and theelement may glide to a central area of the viewing window.

In embodiments, a sequence for progressively displaying content(dynamic) may be received by serially selecting elements. In someembodiments, serial selection of elements may be received during a livepresentation or display of content, e.g., during a presentation mode.For example, a first selection of a first element may be received, andthen a second selection of a second element may be received, then athird selection of a third element may be received, and then a fourthselection of a fourth element may be received, and so on.

As illustrated by FIG. 6B, a first selection 618 of first element 604may be received in window 602. In this example, first selection 618 isan invisible circle substantially enclosing first element 604(identified by a dashed line). Thereafter, a second selection 620 ofsecond element 606 may be received in window 602, e.g., the secondselection 620 consisting of an invisible circle substantially enclosingsecond element 606 (identified by a dashed line). Thereafter, a thirdselection 622 of third element 608 may be received in window 602, e.g.,the third selection 622 consisting of an invisible circle substantiallyenclosing third element 608 (identified by a dashed line). Thereafter, afourth selection 624 of fourth element 610 may be received in window602, e.g., the fourth selection 624 consisting of an invisible circlesubstantially enclosing fourth element 610 (identified by a dashedline).

In further embodiments, an indication of a path for progressivelydisplaying content (dynamic) may be received by identifying a connectorbetween a first element and a second element of the content. Inembodiments, a connector may consist of a visible or an invisible line,e.g., drawn by a stylus or by touch, between the first and secondelements. In some cases, the connector may consist of a substantiallystraight line between the first and second elements. Alternatively, theconnector may consist of a substantially curved or twisted line betweenthe first and second elements. Alternatively still, the connector mayconsist of any combination thereof.

In further embodiments, a plurality of connectors may be received. Insome embodiments, a second connector may be identified between thesecond element and a third element. In other embodiments, a secondconnector may be identified between a third element and a fourthelement. Thus, connectors between elements may be continuous ordiscontinuous and any number of connectors may be identified. Asillustrated, a first connector 626 may be received between first element604 and second element 606; a second connector 628 may be receivedbetween second element 606 and third element 608; and a third connector630 may be received between third element 608 and fourth element 610. Asillustrated, first connector 626 is a substantially curved, invisibleline (represented by a dashed line); second connector 628 is also asubstantially curved, invisible line (represented by a dashed line); andthird connector 630 is also a substantially curved, invisible line(represented by a dashed line).

FIG. 6C illustrates an embodiment of maintaining context forprogressively displayed dynamic-zoom-focused content.

According to embodiments, content may be dynamic-zoom-focused along apath between two elements, as determined by the received selections andconnectors described with reference to FIG. 6B above. That is, when aconnector is substantially straight, dynamic-zoom-focus may follow asubstantially straight path between the two elements. Alternatively,when a connector substantially curved or twisted, dynamic-zoom-focus mayfollow a substantially curved or twisted path between the two elements.

In other embodiments, a path may be automatically generated uponselection of a second element. For instance, similar to an embodimentdescribed above with respect to shifting contextual-zoom-focus from oneelement to another (see, e.g., FIGS. 1C and 5B). For instance, whencontextual-zoom-focus has been placed on a first element, a single tapmay be received on or near a second element (or in an area of the windowtoward the second element). In some embodiments, a path may beautomatically calculated between the first element and the secondelement. Thereafter, the second element may perceptively glide along thegenerated path to replace the first element in the central area of thewindow.

A described above, a first element may signify a starting point for thepath. In order to follow the path, in embodiments, a size of the contentmay be increased (or zoomed), the starting point (i.e., the firstelement) may be repositioned to a central area of the window, andcontext for the starting point may be maintained (e.g., by at leastpartially displaying nearby elements). In embodiments, if the firstelement was selected for dynamic-zoom-focus, the view of the window mayremain on the first element for a predetermined period of time, or untila control input is received, before gliding to the second element alongthe path. As illustrated, view 602 a displays an enlarged form of firstelement 604, along with context for first element 604, such as element632, which is a nearby image of mountains, and element 634, which is anearby image of a body of water.

Upon reaching the period of time or receiving a control input, the viewmay begin to glide from first element 604 to second element 606 along apath determined by connector 626. As illustrated, the path curves alongthe content from first element 604 to second element 606. Inembodiments, the view may be continuously adjusted such that the pathfalls in the central area of the window as content is displayed.Accordingly, in embodiments, content along the path and on either sideof the path is displayed in the window. In this case, context may beprovided between the first element 604 and the second element 606. Forexample, as the view glides from the first element to the secondelement, various elements may be displayed along the path between thetwo elements, e.g., elements 612, 614 and 616 may be displayed. Bydisplaying various elements along the path, context if provided for thefirst element and the second element within the content. For example, adistance between the two elements may be conveyed. Moreover, context forthe content as a whole may be provided, e.g., a size of the content,number of elements in the content, etc.

As illustrated, second element 606 was also selected fordynamic-zoom-focus. Dynamic-zoom-focus may be placed on second element606 by repositioning second element 606 to a central area of window 602b and maintaining context for second element 606. Dynamic-zoom-focus mayremain on second element 606 for a predetermined delay period or until acontrol input is received.

After a predetermined delay period, or upon receiving a control input,dynamic-zoom-focus may proceed to float along a path determined byconnector 628 toward third element 608. In this case, in embodiments,the view of window 602 may be continuously adjusted such that the pathfalls in a central area of the window as content is displayed. Infurther embodiments, content on either side of the path is displayed inwindow 602, providing context within the content, as described above.

As illustrated, third element 608 was also selected fordynamic-zoom-focus. Thus, according to embodiments, dynamic-zoom-focusmay be placed on third element 608 by repositioning third element 608 toa central area of window 602 c and maintaining context for third element608. Dynamic-zoom-focus may remain on third element 608 for apredetermined delay period or until a control input is received.

After a predetermined delay period, or upon receiving a control input,dynamic-zoom-focus may proceed to float along a path determined byconnector 630 toward fourth element 610. In this case, in embodiments,the view of window 602 may be continuously adjusted such that the pathfalls in a central area of the window as content is displayed. Infurther embodiments, content on either side of the path is displayed inwindow 602, providing context within the content, as described above.

As illustrated, fourth element 610 was also selected fordynamic-zoom-focus. Thus, according to embodiments, dynamic-zoom-focusmay be placed on fourth element 610 by repositioning fourth element 610to a central area of window 602 d and maintaining context for fourthelement 610. Dynamic-zoom-focus may remain on fourth element 610 for apredetermined delay period or until a control input is received.

As should be appreciated, embodiments illustrated and described withreference to FIGS. 6A-6C are provided for purposes of explanation andare not intended to be limiting. Indeed, the illustrated embodiments maybe suitable for application with any number of hardware, software, ornetwork environments whether or not explicitly described herein, e.g.,suitable for computing systems with or without touch screencapabilities, suitable over wide or local area networks, suitable usingweb-based or local presentation software, suitable in collaborative,shared or local environments, etc.

FIGS. 7A-7B illustrate alternative embodiments for displaying contentwith dynamic zoom focus.

FIG. 7A illustrates an alternative embodiment for progressivelydisplaying dynamic-zoom-focused content.

As described above with reference to FIG. 5B, in some situations, it maybe desirable to emphasize content in an ordered or sequential fashion.

In some embodiments, a sequence for progressively displayingdynamic-zoom-focused content may be received by serial selection ofobjects during a presentation mode, as illustrated by FIG. 5B. Inalternative embodiments, a sequence for progressively displayingdynamic-zoom-focused content may be received by serial selection ofobjects during an edit mode, as illustrated by FIGS. 7A and 7B.Generally, an edit mode allows one to create and modify content forlater display or presentation. As illustrated by FIG. 7A, an edit modeof a presentation application 700 may comprise multiple windows or panesfor viewing content. For example, slide pane 701 may display a minimizedcopy of each slide in the presentation, and edit pane 703 may display anenlarged view of a slide that is currently being created or edited.

In embodiments, a first selection 708 of object 702 may be received inedit pane 703. In this example, first selection 708 is a visible circledrawn on object 702. Thereafter, a second selection 710 of object 704may be received in edit pane 703, the second selection 710 consisting ofa visible circle drawn on object 704. Thereafter, a third selection 712of object 706 may be received in edit pane 703, the third selection 712consisting of a visible circle drawn on object 706.

According to embodiments, based on the received serial selections inedit mode, dynamic-zoom-focus may be placed on the first object, andthen dynamic-zoom-focus may be placed on the second object, and thendynamic-zoom-focus may be placed on the third object in presentationmode. Successive dynamic-zoom-focus of objects 702, 704 and 706 inpresentation mode would be the same or similar to successivedynamic-zoom-focus of elements 504, 506 and 508, as described withreference to FIG. 5B.

FIG. 7B illustrates an alternative embodiment for progressivelydisplaying dynamic-zoom-focused content.

As described above with reference to FIG. 5B, in some situations, it maybe desirable to emphasize content in an ordered or sequential fashion.

In some embodiments, a sequence for progressively displayingdynamic-zoom-focused content may be received by serial selection ofobjects during a presentation mode, as illustrated by FIG. 5B. Inalternative embodiments, a sequence for progressively displayingdynamic-zoom-focused content may be received by serial selection ofobjects during an edit mode, as illustrated by FIGS. 7A and 7B. Asillustrated by FIG. 7B, an edit mode of a presentation application 700may comprise multiple windows or panes for viewing content. For example,slide pane 701 may display a minimized copy of each slide in thepresentation, and edit pane 703 may display an enlarged view of a slidethat is currently being created or edited.

In embodiments, a first selection 718 of object 702 may be received inedit pane 703. In this example, first selection 718 is a visible circledrawn around object 702. Thereafter, a second selection 720 of element714 may be received in edit pane 703, e.g., the second selection 720consisting of a visible circle drawn around element 714. Thereafter, athird selection 722 of sub-element 716 may be received in edit pane 703,e.g., the third selection 722 consisting of a visible circle drawnaround sub-element 716.

In some embodiments, during edit mode, the system may detect an order ofselections based on an order in which the selections are received.However, in embodiments, a selection delay period may not be employedduring edit mode. That is, a first selection of a first object may bemade and then, at any later time, a second selection of a second objectmay be made. In other embodiments, an option may be available in editmode for manually setting an order of a selection when the selection isentered or at any later time. In additional embodiments, an option maybe available in edit mode for adjusting an order of the selections atany time.

According to embodiments, based on the order of the received serialselections in edit mode, dynamic-zoom-focus may be placed on the element702, and then dynamic-zoom-focus may be placed on element 714, and thendynamic-zoom-focus may be placed on sub-element 716 in presentationmode. Successive dynamic-zoom-focus of object 702, element 714 andsub-element 716 in presentation mode would be the same or similar tosuccessive contextual-zoom-focus of elements 504, 506 and 508, asdescribed with reference to FIG. 5B. Additionally, embodiments forcontextual-zoom-focusing on object 204, element 206 and sub-elements 224and 226 in presentation mode are described with reference to FIGS.2A-2C. These embodiments would be similar for applying serializeddynamic-zoom-focus to object 702, element 714 and sub-element 716 in apresentation mode.

As should be appreciated, embodiments illustrated and described withreference to FIGS. 7A-7B are provided for purposes of explanation andare not intended to be limiting. Indeed, the illustrated embodiments maybe suitable for application with any number of hardware, software, ornetwork environments whether or not explicitly described herein, e.g.,suitable for computing systems with or without touch screencapabilities, suitable over wide or local area networks, suitable usingweb-based or local presentation software, suitable in collaborative,shared or local environments, etc.

FIG. 8 is a flow diagram representing an embodiment of a method fordisplaying content with contextual zoom focus.

As should be appreciated, the particular steps and methods describedherein are not exclusive and, as will be understood by those skilled inthe art, the particular ordering of steps as described herein is notintended to limit the method, e.g., steps may be performed in differingorder, additional steps may be performed, and disclosed steps may beexcluded without departing from the present disclosure.

The method 800 of FIG. 8 begins with begin operation 802. Beginoperation 802 may refer to any suitable initiation of a method fordisplaying content with contextual zoom focus. For example, beginoperation may initiate a presentation application or other applicationfor displaying or presenting content.

At display operation 804, content having one or more objects may bedisplayed in a window, e.g., a window associated with a computingdevice. According to some embodiments, the content comprises a pluralityof objects displayed in a configuration, or an arrangement, within thewindow. That is, with respect to an object of the plurality of objects,some objects are displayed near the object and other objects aredisplayed farther away from the object in the arrangement. In otherembodiments, objects are not displayed near other objects within thecontent, or the content comprises a single object.

At receive selection operation 806, a selection of an object may bereceived. For example, selection of an object may be received by adouble tap on or near the object using a stylus or touch. In otherembodiments, selection of an object may be received by a double click onor near the object using a mouse, or short-cut keys on a keyboard, e.g.,up, down, left, right arrow keys. In still other embodiments, selectionof an object may be received by visibly or invisibly drawing a shapearound the object, e.g., a circular shape.

At focus operation 808, contextual-zoom-focus may be placed on theselected object. For example, contextual-zoom-focus may involveincreasing a size of the selected object and repositioning the selectedobject to a central area of the window. In some cases,contextual-zoom-focus may be animated, i.e., the selected object mayperceptively increase in size and glide into a central area of thewindow. In other cases, contextual-zoom-focus may be immediate, i.e.,the view of the window may quickly transition, or flash, to displayingan enlarged form of the selected object in a central area of the window.

At display context operation 810, context for the selected object may bedisplayed in the window. For example, to provide context for theselected object, at least one other object of the plurality of objectsmay be partially displayed in the window. For example, whencontextual-zoom-focus is placed on an object, context for thecontextual-zoom-focused object with respect to the plurality of objectsmay be preserved. For example, as described above, the plurality ofobjects may be arranged with respect to one another. Moreover, inembodiments, the arrangement of the plurality of objects may be fixedsuch that increasing the sizes of the plurality of objects in asmart-zoom-focus view does not alter the positions of the objects withrespect to one another. Accordingly, context for thecontextual-zoom-focused object with respect to the plurality of objectsmay be preserved by at least partially displaying one or more objectsthat are positioned near the contextual-zoom-focused object within thearrangement. In other embodiments, e.g., when objects are not displayednear other objects or the content comprises a single object, context maybe preserved by displaying at least some white space around the selectedobject in the window. In embodiments, “white space” comprises anybackground for the content in the window (e.g., any background pattern,background color, background image, etc.) and need not be a “white”color.

In embodiments, to allow for context, contextual-zoom-focus may beplaced on an object such that the object fills up to about 64% of awindow. In other embodiments, contextual-zoom-focus may be placed on anobject such that the object fills a majority of a window, e.g., morethan about 50% but less than about 64% of the window. In still otherembodiments, an object in contextual-zoom-focus may fill any suitableportion of a window such that the object is emphasized or highlightedwithin the window, but context with respect to the object is maintained.According to further embodiments, upon receiving a selection to place anobject in contextual-zoom-focus, calculations may be made to determinean extent to which the size of the selected object should be increasedin order to display the selected object along with context in thewindow.

At decision operation 812, it is determined whether an additionalselection of an object was received. For example, selection of an objectmay be received by a double tap on or near the object using a stylus ortouch. In other embodiments, selection of an object may be received by adouble click on or near the object using a mouse or short-cut keys on akeyboard. In still other embodiments, selection of an object may bereceived by visibly or invisibly drawing a shape around the object,e.g., a circular shape. If an additional selection of an object wasreceived, the method proceeds to contextual-zoom-focus operation 808. Inthis case, depending on whether the selection is a double tap or asingle tap, for instance, ultra-focus may be initiated, as discussedwith reference to FIG. 2C, or a shift in contextual-zoom-focus may beinitiated, as discussed with reference to FIG. 1C. If an additionalselection of an object was not received, the method proceeds to decisionoperation 814.

At decision operation 814, it is determined whether a selection toreturn to displaying the content having one or more objects wasreceived, i.e., a return to normal view. For example, a selection toreturn to normal view from contextual-zoom-focus view may include adouble tap or click in white space within the window. For example, whenreturning to normal view, a size of the smart-zoom-focused object andsizes of other objects may decrease. Additionally, a position of thecontextual-zoom-focused object may shift from the central area of thewindow to its original position in the arrangement of the content. Inembodiments, returning to normal view comprises returning to an originalview of the content in the window. Additionally, returning to normalview may be animated and the contextual-zoom-focused object mayperceptively decrease in sized and glide from the central area of thewindow to its original position. In other cases, the return to normalview may be immediate, i.e., the view of the window may quicklytransition, or flash, from displaying the contextual-zoom-focused objectin a central area of window to displaying a diminished form of thecontextual-zoom-focused object in its original position. If a selectionto return to normal view was received, the method proceeds to displayoperation 804. If a selection to return to normal view was not received,the method proceeds to end operation 816.

At end operation 816, the method of FIG. 8 may be terminated via anysuitable means. For example, end operation 816 may involve closing apresentation application or other application for displaying orpresenting content. According to embodiments, end operation 816 does notin any way prevent conducting begin operation 802 again at some futuretime.

FIG. 9 is a flow diagram representing an embodiment of a method fordisplaying content with dynamic zoom focus.

The method 900 of FIG. 9 begins with begin operation 902. Beginoperation 902 may refer to any suitable initiation of a method fordisplaying content with dynamic zoom focus. For example, begin operationmay initiate a presentation application or other application fordisplaying or presenting content.

At display operation 904, a plurality of objects may be displayed in awindow, e.g., a window associated with a computing device. According tosome embodiments, the plurality of objects is displayed in aconfiguration, or an arrangement, within the window. That is, withrespect to an object of the plurality of objects, some objects aredisplayed near the object and other objects are displayed farther awayfrom the object in the arrangement.

At receive operation 906, an indication of a path for progressivelydisplaying a first object and a second object within the content may bereceived. In embodiments, the indication of the path may consist of avisible or an invisible line, e.g., drawn by a stylus or by touch,between the first and second objects. In some cases, the indication ofthe path may consist of a substantially straight line between the firstand second objects. Alternatively, the indication of the path mayconsist of a substantially curved or twisted line between the first andsecond objects. In some embodiments, an indication of a path may bereceived in an edit mode, and in other embodiments, the indication ofthe path may be received in a presentation mode.

At focus operation 908, dynamic-zoom-focus may be placed on the firstobject. For example, dynamic-zoom-focus may involve increasing a size ofthe first object, and repositioning the first object to a central areaof the window, and maintaining context for the first object. In somecases, dynamic-zoom-focus may be animated, i.e., the first object mayperceptively increase in size and glide into a central area of thewindow. In other cases, dynamic-zoom-focus may be immediate, i.e., theview of the window may quickly transition, or flash, to displaying anenlarged form of the first object in a central area of the window.

At follow operation 910, a path may be followed from the first object tothe second object. In order to follow the path, in embodiments,dynamic-zoom-focus may glide away from the first object along the pathtoward the second object. In embodiments, the view may be continuouslyadjusted such that the path falls in the central area of the window ascontent is displayed. Accordingly, in embodiments, content along thepath and on either side of the path is displayed in the window,providing context within the content. However, the path itself may notbe displayed in the window. Additionally, for example, the view mayglide along the path at a particular rate, e.g., a default rate or arate selected by a user.

At focus operation 912, dynamic-zoom-focus may be placed on the secondobject. For example, dynamic-zoom-focus may involve repositioning thesecond object to a central area of the window and maintaining contextfor the second object in the window. In some cases, dynamic-zoom-focusmay be animated, i.e., the second object may perceptively glide into acentral area of the window.

At decision operation 914, it is determined whether an additionalindication of a path was received. If an additional indication of a pathwas received, the method proceeds to focus operation 916. If anadditional indication of a path was not received, the method proceeds toend operation 922.

At focus operation 916, dynamic-zoom-focus may be placed on a nextobject. For example, dynamic-zoom-focus may involve increasing a size ofthe next object, repositioning the next object to a central area of thewindow, and maintaining context for the next object in the window. Insome cases, dynamic-zoom-focus may be animated, i.e., the next objectmay perceptively increase in size and glide into a central area of thewindow. In other cases, dynamic-zoom-focus may be immediate, i.e., theview of the window may quickly transition, or flash, to displaying anenlarged form of the next object in a central area of the window.

At follow operation 918, a path may be followed from the next object toa subsequent object. In order to follow the path, in embodiments,dynamic-zoom-focus may glide away from the next object along the pathtoward the subsequent object. In embodiments, the view may becontinuously adjusted such that the path falls in the central area ofthe window as content is displayed. Accordingly, in embodiments, contentalong the path and on either side of the path is displayed in thewindow, providing context within the content. However, the path itself(i.e., a line) may not be displayed in the window. Additionally, forexample, the view may glide along the path at a particular rate, e.g., adefault rate or a rate selected by a user.

At focus operation 920, dynamic-zoom-focus may be placed on thesubsequent object. For example, dynamic-zoom-focus may involverepositioning the subsequent object to a central area of the window andmaintaining context for the subsequent object in the window. In somecases, dynamic-zoom-focus may be animated, i.e., the subsequent objectmay perceptively glide into a central area of the window.

At end operation 922, the method of FIG. 9 may be terminated via anysuitable means. For example, end operation 922 may involve closing apresentation application or other application for displaying orpresenting content. According to embodiments, end operation 922 does notin any way prevent conducting begin operation 902 again at some futuretime.

FIG. 10 illustrates a system for displaying content with smart zoomfocus (i.e., contextual zoom focus and/or dynamic zoom focus).

The system 1000 includes a first client 1002, a second client 1004, athird client 1006, and a fourth client 1008. Although four clients areshown, it is contemplated that fewer or additional clients may accessthe server 1012 through the network connection 1010. In someembodiments, one or more of clients 1002-1008 are computing devicescapable of displaying or presenting content locally and for placingcontextual-zoom-focus and/or dynamic zoom focus on one or more elementsof the content, as described with reference to FIGS. 1A-6B above. Inother embodiments, one or more of clients 1002-1008 are capable ofdisplaying or presenting content by communicating with one or more ofclients 1002-1008 via the network connection 1010. In still otherembodiments, clients 1002-1008 are capable of displaying or presentingcontent by communicating with server 1012 via a web browser over networkconnection 1010. In some embodiments, one or more servers 1012 may beused to implement aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating physical components (i.e.,hardware) of a computing device with which embodiments of the disclosuremay be practiced.

The computing device components described below may be suitable for thecomputing devices described above. In a basic configuration, thecomputing device 1100 may include at least one processing unit 1102 anda system memory 1104. Depending on the configuration and type ofcomputing device, the system memory 1104 may comprise, but is notlimited to, volatile storage (e.g., random access memory), non-volatilestorage (e.g., read-only memory), flash memory, or any combination ofsuch memories. The system memory 1104 may include an operating system1105 and one or more program modules 1106 suitable for running softwareapplications 1120 such as a presentation application. The operatingsystem 1105, for example, may be suitable for controlling the operationof the computing device 1100 in order to display or present content.Furthermore, embodiments may be practiced in conjunction with a graphicslibrary, other operating systems, or any other application program andis not limited to any particular application or system. This basicconfiguration is illustrated in FIG. 11 by those components within adashed line 1108.

The computing device 1100 may have additional features or functionality.For example, the computing device 1100 may also include additional datastorage devices (removable and/or non-removable) such as, for example,magnetic disks, optical disks, or tape. Such additional storage isillustrated in FIG. 11 by a removable storage device 1109 and anon-removable storage device 1110.

As stated above, a number of program modules and data files may bestored in the system memory 1104. While executing on the processing unit1102, the program modules 1106 (e.g., a presentation application) mayperform processes including, but not limited to, one or more of thestages of the methods 800-900 illustrated in FIGS. 8-9. Other programmodules that may be used in accordance with embodiments of the presentdisclosure may include electronic mail and contacts applications, wordprocessing applications, spreadsheet applications, databaseapplications, slide presentation applications, drawing or computer-aidedapplication programs, etc.

Furthermore, embodiments may be practiced in an electrical circuitcomprising discrete electronic elements, packaged or integratedelectronic chips containing logic gates, a circuit utilizing amicroprocessor, or on a single chip containing electronic elements ormicroprocessors. For example, embodiments may be practiced via asystem-on-a-chip (SOC) where each or many of the components illustratedin FIG. 11 may be integrated onto a single integrated circuit. Such anSOC device may include one or more processing units, graphics units,communications units, system virtualization units and variousapplication functionality all of which are integrated (or “burned”) ontothe chip substrate as a single integrated circuit. When operating via anSOC, the functionality, described herein, with respect to thepresentation application may be operated via application-specific logicintegrated with other components of the computing device 1100 on thesingle integrated circuit (chip). Embodiments may also be practicedusing other technologies capable of performing logical operations suchas, for example, AND, OR, and NOT, including but not limited tomechanical, optical, fluidic, and quantum technologies. In addition,embodiments may be practiced within a general purpose computer or in anyother circuits or systems.

The computing device 1100 may also have one or more input device(s) 1112such as a keyboard, a mouse, a pen, a sound input device, a touch inputdevice, etc. The output device(s) 1114 such as a display, speakers, aprinter, etc. may also be included. The aforementioned devices areexamples and others may be used. For example, computing device 1100 mayfurther comprise an input/output (I/O) device such as a touch screen.The computing device 1100 may include one or more communicationconnections 1116 allowing communications with other computing devices1118. Examples of suitable communication connections 1116 include, butare not limited to, RF transmitter, receiver, and/or transceivercircuitry; universal serial bus (USB), parallel, and/or serial ports.

The term computer readable media as used herein may include computerstorage media. Computer storage media may include volatile andnonvolatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any methodor technology for storage of information, such as computer readableinstructions, data structures, or program modules. The system memory1104, the removable storage device 1109, and the non-removable storagedevice 1110 are all computer storage media examples (i.e., memorystorage.) Computer storage media may include RAM, ROM, electricallyerasable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory or other memorytechnology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or other opticalstorage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage orother magnetic storage devices, or any other article of manufacturewhich can be used to store information and which can be accessed by thecomputing device 1100. Any such computer storage media may be part ofthe computing device 1100. Computer storage media does not include acarrier wave or other propagated or modulated data signal.

Communication media may be embodied by computer readable instructions,data structures, program modules, or other data in a modulated datasignal, such as a carrier wave or other transport mechanism, andincludes any information delivery media. The term “modulated datasignal” may describe a signal that has one or more characteristics setor changed in such a manner as to encode information in the signal. Byway of example, and not limitation, communication media may includewired media such as a wired network or direct-wired connection, andwireless media such as acoustic, radio frequency (RF), infrared, andother wireless media.

The embodiments and functionalities described herein may operate via amultitude of computing systems including, without limitation, wired andwireless computing systems, mobile computing systems (e.g., mobiletelephones, netbooks, tablet or slate type computers, and laptopcomputers).

FIG. 12 illustrates an exemplary tablet computing device 1200 that mayexecute one or more embodiments disclosed herein.

In addition, the embodiments and functionalities described herein mayoperate over distributed systems (e.g., cloud-based computing systems),where application functionality, memory, data storage and retrieval andvarious processing functions may be operated remotely from each otherover a distributed computing network, such as the Internet or anintranet. User interfaces and information of various types may bedisplayed via on-board computing device displays or via remote displayunits associated with one or more computing devices. For example userinterfaces and information of various types may be displayed andinteracted with on a wall surface onto which user interfaces andinformation of various types are projected. Interaction with themultitude of computing systems with which embodiments may be practicedinclude, keystroke entry, touch screen entry, voice or other audioentry, gesture entry where an associated computing device is equippedwith detection (e.g., camera) functionality for capturing andinterpreting user gestures for controlling the functionality of thecomputing device, and the like.

FIG. 13 illustrates a mobile computing device 1300, for example, amobile telephone, a smart phone, a tablet personal computer, a laptopcomputer, and the like, with which embodiments of the present disclosuremay be practiced.

With reference to FIG. 13, one embodiment of a mobile computing device1300 for implementing the embodiments is illustrated. In a basicconfiguration, the mobile computing device 1300 is a handheld computerhaving both input elements and output elements. The mobile computingdevice 1300 typically includes a display 1305 and one or more inputbuttons 1310 that allow the user to enter information into the mobilecomputing device 1300. The display 1305 of the mobile computing device1300 may also function as an input device (e.g., a touch screendisplay). If included, an optional side input element 1315 allowsfurther user input. The side input element 1315 may be a rotary switch,a button, or any other type of manual input element. In alternativeembodiments, mobile computing device 1300 may incorporate more or lessinput elements. For example, the display 1305 may not be a touch screenin some embodiments.

In yet another alternative embodiment, the mobile computing device 1300is a portable phone system, such as a cellular phone. The mobilecomputing device 1300 may also include an optional keypad 1335. Optionalkeypad 1335 may be a physical keypad or a “soft” keypad generated on thetouch screen display. In various embodiments, the output elementsinclude the display 1305 for showing a graphical user interface (GUI), avisual indicator 1320 (e.g., a light emitting diode), and/or an audiotransducer 1325 (e.g., a speaker). In some embodiments, the mobilecomputing device 1300 incorporates a vibration transducer for providingthe user with tactile feedback. In yet another embodiment, the mobilecomputing device 1300 incorporates input and/or output ports, such as anaudio input (e.g., a microphone jack), an audio output (e.g., aheadphone jack), and a video output (e.g., a HDMI port) for sendingsignals to or receiving signals from an external device.

FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating the architecture of oneembodiment of a tablet computing device 1200 or a mobile computingdevice 1300.

That is, the tablet computing device 1200 or the mobile computing device1300 can incorporate a system (i.e., an architecture) 1400 to implementsome embodiments. In one embodiment, the system 1400 is implemented as a“smart phone” capable of running one or more applications (e.g.,browser, e-mail, calendaring, contact managers, messaging clients,games, and media clients/players). In some embodiments, the system 1400is integrated as a computing device, such as an integrated personaldigital assistant (PDA) and wireless phone.

One or more application programs 1466 may be loaded into the memory 1462and run on or in association with the operating system 1464. Examples ofthe application programs include phone dialer programs, e-mail programs,personal information management (PIM) programs, word processingprograms, spreadsheet programs, Internet browser programs, messagingprograms, and so forth. The system 1400 also includes a non-volatilestorage area 1468 within the memory 1462. The non-volatile storage area1468 may be used to store persistent information that should not be lostif the system 1400 is powered down. The application programs 1466 (e.g.,presentation application 1465) may use and store information in thenon-volatile storage area 1468, such as e-mail or other messages used byan e-mail application, and the like. A synchronization application (notshown) also resides on the system 1400 and is programmed to interactwith a corresponding synchronization application resident on a hostcomputer to keep the information stored in the non-volatile storage area1468 synchronized with corresponding information stored at the hostcomputer. As should be appreciated, other applications may be loadedinto the memory 1462 and run on the tablet computing device 1200 or themobile computing device 1300, including a presentation application 1465described herein.

The system 1400 has a power supply 1470, which may be implemented as oneor more batteries. The power supply 1470 might further include anexternal power source, such as an AC adapter or a powered docking cradlethat supplements or recharges the batteries.

The system 1400 may also include a radio 1472 that performs the functionof transmitting and receiving radio frequency communications. The radio1472 facilitates wireless connectivity between the system 1400 and the“outside world,” via a communications carrier or service provider.Transmissions to and from the radio 1472 are conducted under control ofthe operating system 1464. In other words, communications received bythe radio 1472 may be disseminated to the application programs 1466 viathe operating system 1464, and vice versa.

The visual indicator 1420 may be used to provide visual notifications,and/or an audio interface 1474 may be used for producing audiblenotifications via an audio transducer. In the illustrated embodiment,the visual indicator 1420 is a light emitting diode (LED) and the audiotransducer is a speaker. These devices may be directly coupled to thepower supply 1470 so that when activated, they remain on for a durationdictated by the notification mechanism even though the processor 1460and other components might shut down for conserving battery power. TheLED 1420 may be programmed to remain on indefinitely until the usertakes action to indicate the powered-on status of the device. The audiointerface 1474 is used to provide audible signals to and receive audiblesignals from the user. For example, in addition to being coupled to theaudio transducer, the audio interface 1474 may also be coupled to amicrophone to receive audible input, such as to facilitate a telephoneconversation. In accordance with embodiments, the microphone may alsoserve as an audio sensor to facilitate control of notifications, as willbe described below. The system 1400 may further include a videointerface 1476 that enables an operation of an on-board camera 1430 torecord still images, video stream, and the like.

A tablet computing device 1200 or mobile computing device 1300implementing the system 1400 may have additional features orfunctionality. For example, the tablet computing device 1200 or mobilecomputing device 1300 may also include additional data storage devices(removable and/or non-removable) such as, magnetic disks, optical disks,or tape. Such additional storage is illustrated in FIG. 14 by thenon-volatile storage area 1468.

Data/information generated or captured by the tablet computing device1200 or mobile computing device 1300 and stored via the system 1400 maybe stored locally on the tablet computing device 1200 or mobilecomputing device 1300, as described above, or the data may be stored onany number of storage media that may be accessed by the device via theradio 1472 or via a wired connection between the tablet computing device1200 or mobile computing device 1300 and a separate computing device,for example, a server computer in a distributed computing network, suchas the Internet. As should be appreciated such data/information may beaccessed via the tablet computing device 1200 or mobile computing device1300 via the radio 1472 or via a distributed computing network.Similarly, such data/information may be readily transferred betweencomputing devices for storage and use according to well-knowndata/information transfer and storage means, including electronic mailand collaborative data/information sharing systems.

Embodiments of the present disclosure, for example, are described abovewith reference to block diagrams and/or operational illustrations ofmethods, systems, and computer program products according toembodiments. The functions/acts noted in the blocks may occur out of theorder as shown in any flowchart. For example, two blocks shown insuccession may in fact be executed substantially concurrently or theblocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending uponthe functionality/acts involved.

The description and illustration of one or more embodiments provided inthis application are not intended to limit or restrict the scope of thedisclosure as claimed in any way. The embodiments, examples, and detailsprovided in this application are considered sufficient to conveypossession and enable others to make and use the best mode recited bythe claims. The claims should not be construed as being limited to anyembodiment, example, or detail provided in this application. Regardlessof whether shown and described in combination or separately, the variousfeatures (both structural and methodological) are intended to beselectively included or omitted to produce an embodiment with aparticular set of features. Having been provided with the descriptionand illustration of the present application, one skilled in the art mayenvision variations, modifications, and alternate embodiments fallingwithin the spirit of the broader aspects of the general inventiveconcept embodied in this application that do not depart from the broaderscope of the claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A computer-implemented method for displayingcontent having a plurality of objects, the method comprising: displayingthe plurality of objects in a window, the plurality of objects having anarrangement; receiving an indication of a path from a first object to asecond object of the plurality of objects; placing dynamic-zoom-focus onthe first object in the window; following the path from the first objectto the second object, wherein following the path comprises displayingone or more of the plurality of objects along the path; and placingdynamic-zoom-focus on the second object in the window.
 2. Thecomputer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein receiving the indicationof the path from the first object to the second object comprises one of:receiving a touch indication of the path; receiving a stylus indicationof the path; receiving an indication of the path using an input devicecomprising one of: a mouse and a keyboard; and automatically generatingthe path upon selection of the second object.
 3. Thecomputer-implemented method of claim 2, wherein the touch indication ofthe path further comprises substantially enclosing the first object andthen substantially enclosing the second object using touch.
 4. Thecomputer-implemented method of claim 2, wherein the stylus indication ofthe path further comprises substantially enclosing the first object andthen substantially enclosing the second object using a stylus.
 5. Thecomputer-implemented method of claim 2, wherein the indication of thepath further comprises selecting the first object and then selecting thesecond object using an input device.
 6. The computer-implemented methodof claim 3, further comprising: receiving a connector between thesubstantially enclosed first object and the substantially enclosedsecond object.
 7. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, whereinthe indication of the path from the first object to the second object isreceived during an edit mode.
 8. The computer-implemented method ofclaim 1, wherein placing dynamic-zoom-focus on the first object,following the path, and placing dynamic-zoom-focus on the second objectoccurs based on predetermined timing.
 9. The computer-implemented methodof claim 1, wherein placing dynamic-zoom-focus on the first object,following the path, and placing dynamic-zoom-focus on the second objectoccurs based on receiving a control input.
 10. The computer-implementedmethod of claim 1, wherein the indication of the path from the firstobject to the second object is received during a presentation mode. 11.The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein following the pathcomprises gliding along the path from the first object to the secondobject.
 12. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein placingdynamic-zoom-focus on the first object comprises: increasing a size ofthe first object; and repositioning the first object to a centralportion of the window.
 13. A computer-readable storage medium havingcomputer-readable instructions stored thereon that when executed cause acomputer system to: display an object in a window, wherein the objectcomprises one or more elements in a first arrangement, and wherein atleast one of the one or more elements comprises one or more sub-elementsin a second arrangement; receive an indication of a first path from afirst element to a second element of the one or more elements; placedynamic-zoom-focus on the first element in the window, wherein placingdynamic-zoom-focus on the first element comprises maintaining contextfor the first element in the window; follow the first path from thefirst element to the second element; and place dynamic-zoom-focus on thesecond element in the window, wherein placing dynamic-zoom-focus on thesecond element comprises maintaining context for the second element inthe window.
 14. The computer-readable storage medium of claim 13,further comprising: receive an indication of a second path from a firstsub-element to a second sub-element of the second element; placedynamic-zoom-focus on the first sub-element in the window; follow thesecond path from the first sub-element to the second sub-element; andplace dynamic-zoom-focus on the second sub-element in the window. 15.The computer-readable storage medium of claim 13, wherein receiving theindication of the first path comprises one of: receive a touchindication of the first path; receive a stylus indication of the firstpath; receive an indication of the first path using an input devicecomprising one of: a mouse and a keyboard; and automatically generatethe first path upon selection of the second sub-element.
 16. Thecomputer-readable storage medium of claim 15, wherein the indication ofthe first path further comprises substantially enclosing the firstelement and then substantially enclosing the second element.
 17. Acomputer system comprising: at least one processing unit; and at leastone memory having computer-readable instructions stored thereon that,when executed by the at least one processing unit, cause the computersystem to: display a plurality of objects in a window, the plurality ofobjects having an arrangement; receive an indication of a path from afirst object to a second object of the plurality of objects; placedynamic-zoom-focus on the first object in the window; follow the pathfrom the first object to the second object; and place dynamic-zoom-focuson the second object in the window.
 18. The computer system of claim 17,wherein placing dynamic-zoom-focus on the first object comprises:increase a size of the first object; reposition the first object to acentral portion of the window; and maintain context for the first objectin the window.
 19. The computer system of claim 17, wherein theindication of the path from the first object to the second object isreceived during an edit mode.
 20. The computer system of claim 17,wherein the indication of the path from the first object to the secondobject is received during a presentation mode.